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F O R ILLIN OIS MEMB E R S I L L I N OI S F OC U S I N S I DE
LIVING BY SACRI F I CE
T H E M YS T E R I O U S N OT E
A YOU NG COU P LE CONFRON T S STAG G ERING DE BT
U P COM I NG A DVE NT I S T F I LM T E AC HE S LE S S ONS I N G OOD S T E WA R D S HI P
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“ Te l l i n g t h e s t o r i e s o f w h a t G o d i s d o i n g i n t h e l i v e s o f H i s p e o p l e ” FEATURES
14 Living by Sacrifice By Leilani and Adrian Langdon
As we were putting together this issue of the Herald, my mind went to Jesus’ trilogy of the Kingdom in Matthew 25. The first story is about the ten maidens responsible for lighting the way for the wedding procession with their lamps of oil (see vs. 1-13); the second is about the three servants who received resources to manage, based on their several abilities (see vs. 14-30); the third story illustrates two classes of people represented by the sheep and the goats (see vs. 31-46), who were judged by their actions of generosity or lack thereof — three stories about how we manage our resources and opportunities, i.e., stewardship. You’ll discover some inspiring and encouraging stories that, if taken to heart, will bring joy and fulfillment, and ensure that we will hear Jesus say, “Well done,” when we meet at the gates of the New Jerusalem. n
Gary Burns Editor
18 Reimagining Stewardship Stories By Rich Aguilera
PERSPECTIVES
LIFESTYLE
President’s Perspective
3
Family Focus
6
From My Perspective
4
Alive & Well
7
Lest We Forget
8
Conversations With God
9
CURRENT MATTERS
Conexiones
11
Adventist Health System
24
One Voice
38
Andrews University
25
News 26 EVANGELISM
Calendar at-a-Glance
32
Sharing Our Hope
10
Announcements 33
Telling God’s Stories
12
Mileposts 34
Partnership With God
37
Classifieds 35
On The Edge
39
COVER PHOTO: SHARON PREST, MARC ULLOM; DESIGN: APRIL S ILVA The Lake Union Herald (ISSN 0194-908X) is published monthly (except for June/July and November/December) by the Lake Union Conference, P.O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287. Periodicals postage paid at Berrien Springs, Michigan, and additional mailing offices. Yearly subscription price is $12.50. Vol. 110, No. 2. POSTMASTER: Send all address changes to: Lake Union Herald, P. O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287.
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GUEST PERSPECTIVE
Jacob’s Vow The Bible records the story of Jacob leaving his father and mother, fleeing for his life. Jacob had stolen the blessing of his father, Isaac, from his brother, Esau.
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promise to be with you always (see Matthew 28:20). In response to God’s goodness to you, what vows will you make for 2018 regarding your time, talents, treasures and temperance? What vows are you willing to make regarding your stewardship of all the resources God has placed in your trust? During the first quarter of 2018 (January–March), our members around the world will be studying the principles of stewardship each day. Take advantage of this wonderful and practical Sabbath School resource to encourage you to follow the example of Jacob. Join me in setting aside some quality time to reflect on God’s goodness. Based on the reality of our reflection, let’s make some bold stewardship vows that will advance God’s Kingdom for eternity. n
▲ Glynn Scott
Glynn C. W. Scott is treasurer of the Lake Union Conference.
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Isaac charged him not to take a wife from the daughters of Canaan. Arise, go to Padan Aram, to the house of Bethuel your mother’s father; and take yourself a wife from there of the daughters of Laban your mother’s brother (Genesis 28:1-2 NKJV). On the eve of the second day of Jacob’s journey, he was alone, anxious and fearing God had left him when he came to a certain place in the vicinity of the Luz. It was in this place that Jacob rested for the night, using a stone for his pillow (see verses 10, 11). During his sleep, Jacob had a dream in which he heard God’s voice. I am the Lord God of Abraham your father and the God of Isaac; the land on which you lie I will give to you and your descendants . . . Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have spoken to you (v. 13, 15). Jacob was awakened from his sleep and declared, . . . Surely the Lord is in this place, and I did not know it (v. 16). In a grateful response to God’s promise of blessings to Jacob, he vowed: If God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I am going, and give me bread to eat and clothing to put on, so that I come back to my father’s house in peace, then the Lord shall be my God. And this stone which I have set as a pillar shall be God’s house, and of all that You give me I will surely give a tenth to You (v. 20-22). This vow of Jacob is the first recorded vow in history (see SDA Bible Commentary, p. 383). Jacob made this vow solely based on the reality that he was in the presence of God. He was not alone. God promised to be with Jacob in all places wherever he would go. As you reflect on God’s goodness throughout the days of 2017, recount the times that you had a real sense of the presence of God in fulfillment of His
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FROM MY PERSPECTIVE
What Matters to God By Jon Corder WHEN I THINK OF STEWARDSHIP, my thoughts automatically transition to how good God is. That He has chosen and individually equipped us to be His stewards is simply amazing! Each has a personality that is unique. Each has been given their own package of talents, resources and abilities. When these gifts, that we have individually, are interfaced with what others have, ▲ Jon Corder
a powerful stewardship team is created that will make a wonderful difference in the world God created and placed within our care. Imagine the influence a team like that would have! I haven’t always understood what a privilege it is to be one of God’s stewards. That has changed though, because now, as a church, I believe we are communicating more clearly that stewardship encompasses other things beside financial resources. So, I hope my following thoughts about stewardship will be helpful to you as you map your own stewardship journey
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and identify how you can use the gifts God has given you in fulfilling your duty and privilege as one of His stewards. A steward acts and manages on behalf of an owner or person in charge. We know from Scripture that God made us His stewards at creation. Therefore, as God’s stewards, our thinking should be, “What matters to God should matter to us.” What naturally follows is to discover what matters to God. For example, there should be no question regarding the value our Creator/Redeemer has placed on each person because He has given and sacrificed so much for each one of us. And, because He wants the best for each of us, should we not want the best for each other? Also, if His church is His bride, then shouldn’t we be careful how we treat His church? Additionally, if our bodies are the temple of God, then surely our health matters to Him and consequently, should matter to us, too. But this is where the disconnect takes place for me. I believe all of what I just said, but I do a poor job following through with the, “then it should matter to me.” For example, I know that I am valued by God and that He loves me very much. Many texts in the Bible confirm that. However, it’s easy with my negative selftalk to think more like this: “How could God really love me? Look at what I’ve just done!” This is where I need to have more of the mind of God than relying so much on what I think because my thoughts and opinions are inaccurate. I believe this aspect of being a good steward is a personal journey on which the Holy Spirit guides us. Perhaps, that is where the change is taking place for me. Because of the conviction of the Holy Spirit, my behavior is matching up better with what matters to God because it has begun to matter to me. Another thought that is starting to shape my thinking about stewardship comes from the story about the lame man that Peter and John saw when they went to the temple. As they went by him, he asked for money and Peter told him to look at them. Then Peter said, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk.” And he took him by the right hand and lifted him up (Acts 3:6 KJV). What caught my attention is that Peter willingly gave what he had. As a result, the man was blessed with LAKE UNION HERALD
much more than he asked for or expected. What could be a simpler stewardship concept than to willingly give of what we have! Ellen White says it well, “God calls not only for our gifts for the needy, but for our cheerful countenance, our hopeful words, our kindly hand-clasp. When Christ healed the sick, He laid His hands upon them. So should we come in close touch with those whom we seek to benefit. There are many from whom hope has departed. Bring back the sunshine to them. Many have lost their courage. Speak to them words of cheer. Pray for them. There are those who need the bread of life. Read to them from the Word of God. Upon many is a soul-sickness which no earthly balm can reach nor physician heal. Pray for these souls, bring them to Jesus. Tell them that there is a balm in Gilead and a Physician there” (Ellen White, Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 418). I like this concept because it puts stewardship within the reach of everyone as they go through each day. It highlights the difference a smile, a firm hand shake and cheerful words can make. It places value in praying for others even if they may not know they’re being prayed for. It says there is power in the Bible as it is imparted to those in need of hope. These are simple and easy things we can do and, when willingly given, can be a tremendous blessing to others as we function as God’s stewards. Another aspect of stewardship is an attitude of thankfulness for God’s many blessings we enjoy. It is easy to think that if we had more resources, more time, more talent or more influence, we could make a greater contribution and be a better steward. I once thought along these lines. But God convinced me otherwise through a reading program that spanned a number of years. A place where I once worked encouraged employees to read books on the life of Christ authored by Ellen White. I added a few others to the list. I was amazed at the number of promises and words of hope I found within the pages of these books! One promise in particular literally changed my life. I have claimed it over and over again, and it has done more to increase my trust in God than almost anything else. I hope it will do the same for you.
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“Let none waste time in deploring the scantiness of their visible resources. The outward appearance may be unpromising, but energy and trust in God will develop resources. The supply in their hands may seem to fall short of the need to be filled; but in the hands of the Lord it will prove more than sufficient. By the touch of His hand He can increase the scanty provision and make it sufficient for all. The gift brought to Him with thanksgiving and with prayer for His blessing, He will multiply” (Ellen G. White, Prophets and Kings, pp. 242, 243; emphasis supplied). The lesson I learned was to replace the time I spent asking for more with a spirit of thankfulness for what God had already given. What a difference that has made for me in being a good steward! As you contemplate the privilege that is yours to be a steward for God, I encourage you to think about what matters to God and let it become important to you. Let Peter’s example be yours — willingly give what you have. Equally important, have a spirit of thankfulness for the resources, talents, influence and abilities God already has given you. If you do this, He will improve and multiply them. I believe these three things will make all of us better stewards. I dare you to try them! n Jon Corder is the Stewardship director for the Lake Union Conference.
What matters to God? • Do I matter to God? • Does the relationship I have with Him matter? • Does my health matter to God? • Do other people matter to God? Are they valuable to Him? • Does the earth that God created matter to Him? • Does His Word, the Bible, matter to Him? • Does His law matter to Him? • Does His church matter to Him?
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FAMILY FOCUS
Kids These Days! How many times have you heard that phrase, or said it yourself? As we approach middle age and beyond, we are often disturbed about the apparent failings of the younger generation. This can feel overwhelming to parents, grandparents, teachers and pastors.
▲ Alina M. Baltazar
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Those who are “older and wiser” worry about the behavior of youth. Starting in the teenage years, or earlier, adults may become concerned about what music, movies, games and styles of dress interest our youth. There is a concern those interests may lead them astray and away from God’s plans for their lives. In addition, youth are known to take more risks and not always think about how those risks will affect their future. This leads those who care for them to become fearful because we know how a one-time mistake could have life-altering consequences. These fears have not changed over the centuries. Even Ellen White was worried about the youth in her time. Human development is still the same. As we age, we tend to forget the risks we took and how foolish our parents and grandparents thought we were. The mistakes we made when we were young led to lessons we remember more than what we learned in school or from our parents. There are some actual generational differences that have been noticed by researchers. Usually these changes are influenced by the environment in which each generation grew up. The youngest generational cohort, those born between 1995-2012, have been called iGen.1 Although Millennials, those born between 1980 and 1994, grew up in the age of computers, the Internet didn’t become commercially available until they
were in their teens. The iGen generation, named after the iPhone, grew up with smartphones in their hands as children. As a result, they are: 1) in no hurry to grow up, 2) using the Internet excessively, 3) communicating less in-person, 4) less religious, and 5) more accepting of diversity.1 Each generation has its strengths and weaknesses that are reactions to changes in society. In turn, each generation has influenced societal changes: think about the Baby Boomers, those born between 1946 and 1964. What we need to do is to appreciate the challenges young people are facing today and try to bridge the gap by remembering what it was like when we were young. It helps to listen in order to learn about teens’ challenges so we can help guide them to the path the Lord desires for them. The Lord knows the changes our society is dealing with today; remember, He is in charge. He wants us to train our young people to hasten His kingdom. “With such an army of workers as our youth, rightly trained, might furnish, how soon the message of a crucified, risen, and soon-coming Savior might be carried to the whole world!” (E.G. White, Education, p. 271). n Alina M. Baltazar, PhD, MSW, CFLE, is associate professor of Social Work at Andrews University and is a certified family life educator. 1. Twenge, J. (2017). iGen: Why Today’s Super-connected Kids are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy — and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood. New York: Simon and Schuster.
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ALIVE & WELL
Is Soy Good for You? Soy just got real personal for me. For years, I’ve been telling people the fact that more than one cup of soy milk each day can reduce men’s chances of prostate cancer by 70 percent.1 Just last week my dad, who’s taken most of my health advice but has never been a fan of soy, was diagnosed with prostate cancer — an aggressive kind. Fears of soy lead many men, 88 percent in the same study, to reject it outright. Soy also is personal for me because I work on behalf of the malnourished in Uganda where soy is the only affordable source of high-quality protein for the poor. No other plant-based food contains all nine essential amino acids required for human nutrition. Lack of knowledge about soy’s value causes many families who grow it, not to give it to their own children, 35 percent of whom are chronically malnourished. You can hardly say the word “soy” these days without starting a debate. Many Americans, including many Adventists, are wondering if soybeans are even a positive factor in the diet. We should know better. National Geographic research identified the Seventh-day Adventists of Loma Linda as a Blue Zone, a hotspot of health and longevity. Researcher Dan Buettner found soybeans to be one of our super foods.2 These same beans were attributed for the longevity of the Blue Zone residents in Okinawa, Japan, as well. He says the simple act of eating beans can add four years of life. So something about the bean is incredible. Soy is proven to help prevent many forms of cancers3 and even bone loss leading to osteoporosis4, yet many of us are passing the soymilk and choosing other non-dairy alternatives. Has anyone noticed that there are zero grams of protein in all the other “milks,” including almond, flax, coconut and cashew?
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For vegetarians, and especially vegans, the high quality protein in soymilk (eight grams per cup) should not be passed by. While all grains and legumes benefit from a soak, soy needs 10–12 hours to activate the enzymes that make its nutrients available. A twenty-minute boil and you have a super food! From those beans, you can make your own milk, tofu or just keep boiling to eat them like any other bean. Their yellow color gives it the image of being a pot of gold. And, packed with fiber, minerals and amino acids, this treasure is unique. n
▲ Joy Kauffman
Joy Kauffman, MPH, is president of FARM STEW International. 1. Jacobsen, B., S. Knutsen, and G. Fraser. “Does high soy milk intake reduce prostate cancer incidence? The Adventist Health Study (United States).” Cancer Causes and Control, 1998, 9, 553-557. https://link. springer.com/article/10.1023/A%3A1008819500080 2. Dan Buettner. Blue Zones: The Science of Living Longer. National Geographic, Washington DC, 2016, pp. 23, 35. 3. Messina, M., V. Messina, and K. Detchell. The Simple Soybean and Your Health, Avery Publishing Group, New York, 1994. 4. Matthews, Vichuda Lousuebsakul, Synnove F. Knutsen, W. Lawrence Beeson, and Gary E. Frasera. “Soy milk and dairy consumption is independently associated with ultrasound attenuation of the heel bone among postmenopausal women: the Adventist Health Study–2.” Nutrition Research Volume 31, Issue 10, October 2011, pp 766775. https://doi.org/10.1016/j. nutres.2011.09.016
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Two Kinds of Righteousness, Part IV No human being will be justified in his sight by works of the law, since through the law comes knowledge of sin (Romans 3:20, RSV).
▲ George R. Knight
That Bible teaching seems to be clear enough. The law’s function is to hold up God’s ideal and to point out our sin when we fail to meet that ideal. The law, Romans 3:20 plainly states, has absolutely no power to save. That is all true. But! But if I really believe that justification is by grace through faith without works of law, then what happens to the law? Good question! It was the fear that a downplaying of the law would end up doing away with the Sabbath that motivated the Smith and Butler forces in the 1888 era. Let’s listen to Butler on the topic. In an article titled, “The Righteousness of the Law Fulfilled by Us,” he noted that “there is a sentiment prevailing almost everywhere” that is pleasant but dangerous: “‘Only believe in Christ, and you will be all right.’ . . . Jesus does it all.” That teaching, he
proclaimed, “is one of the most dangerous heresies in the world.” The whole point of the third angel’s message, he emphasized, is “the necessity of obedience to the law of God. ‘Here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.’” The Christian world, Butler added, was rapidly losing that truth, and Adventist needed to uplift it. There we have it. Too much of Christ and His righteousness, some feared, would do away with the law, obedience and the need for human righteousness. That fear was at the heart of the reaction to Jones and Waggoner’s teachings at Minneapolis. The two sides had two vastly different perspectives. For the reformers, the key words and phrases were “Christ,” “faith,” “justification by faith,” and terms related to Christ’s righteousness. The Smith/Butler group, on the other hand, emphasized “human effort,” “works,” “obedience,” “law,” “commandments,” “our righteousness,” and “justification by works.” Those two emphases are still quite distinct in Adventism 120 years after Minneapolis. Do they have to be mutually exclusive? Why or why not? How do you line up on these issues? Think it through. Discuss it with your family and friends. n George R. Knight is a retired professor of Church History at the Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. This article is from his book, Lest We Forget, a daily devotional, published by the Review and Herald Publishing Association, page 267, printed by permission.
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CONVERSATIONS WITH GOD
Step Into the Light I was driving home when an interview on a very secular National Public Radio program arrested my attention.
It was an interview with an autobiographical author who wrote about her life crisis as an alcoholic. What caught my attention was the recovering alcoholic’s response to the question, “How do you make it through your day.” She gave a two-word response: “I pray.” The interviewer then asked what she meant by prayer. Her response gave me a whole new paradigm on prayer. She described her prayer experience as stepping into the light, where she was completely exposed before God. She described her commitment to absolute honesty and vulnerability with God as the key to her recovery. Her bold and brave approach to recovery has made a big impression on me. I was reminded of David’s prayer as he made the brave and bold decision to step into the light: Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting (Psalm 139:23, 24 NKJV). I am learning to step into the light. Why don’t you join me, encouraged by the following: God is light and in Him is no darkness at all (1John 1:5 NKJV).
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For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 4:6 NKJV). Then Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life” (John 8:12, NKJV). The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death, upon them a light has shined (Isaiah 9:2 NKJV). Then Jesus said to them, “A little while longer the light is with you. Walk while you have the light, lest darkness overtake you; he who walks in darkness does not know where he is going. While you have the light, believe in the light, that you may become sons of light” (John 12:25 NKJV). I have come as a light into the world, that whoever believes in Me should not abide in darkness (John 12:46 NKJV). The night is far spent, the day is at hand. Therefore let us cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light (Romans 13:12 NKJV). For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light (for the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness, righteousness, and truth), finding out what is acceptable to the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret. But all things that are exposed are made manifest by the light, for whatever makes manifest is light. Therefore He says: “Awake, you who sleep, Arise from the dead, And Christ will give you light” (Ephesians 5:8-14 NKJV). n
▲ Gary Burns
Gary Burns is prayer coordinator for the Lake Union Conference.
FEBRUARY 2018 9
SHARING OUR HOPE
Tapestry of God’s Love NINETY-YEAR-OLD WEAVES TOGETHER FAITH AND SERVICE By Debbie Michel
Jean-Irés Michel
EVER SINCE HE WAS A LITTLE BOY, 90-year old Harvey Brock enjoyed serving his community. When the Indiana native retired 25 years ago, he took it upon himself to volunteer to play the piano for church services and knit items for homeless veterans. His desire to give back is also a natural progression of a life spent serving his country. After enlisting in the military in 1946 and completing his tour of duty, he returned home and found employment in various hospitals throughout the U.S. As he moved around, working in states such as Ohio and Georgia, he always made time to serve. Today, there’s never a day he has nothing to do. On Sunday ▲ Harvey Brock displays a quilt he made from neckmornings, he can be found playties. Since his retirement, he knits lap blankets for the homeless and plays piano for several churches. ing the piano for his retirement community, and an hour later gets in his car for the 15-mile trip to play at a Baptist church in Louisville. On Mondays, he regroups; Tuesdays crochets; Wednesday nights returns to Louisville to play for prayer meeting; Thursdays plays for the retirement community; Fridays crochets; and on Sabbaths plays for his church in Jeffersonville, Indiana. “My niece asks me, ‘When are you going to retire?’” he said from his home in Clarksville, Indiana, situated just across the Kentucky state line. “But I can’t just sit and do nothing.”
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He has always enjoyed needlework and embroidery since grade school, but it wasn’t until he was helping some friends haul a trailer to Alaska that he plunged back into the craft, completing an afghan during the long journey. To date, he has made over 200 lap blankets for veterans and countless more items, including bedspreads for friends expecting babies or getting married. Each mat he crotchets measures 36” x 72” and is meticulously made using 1,000 recycled plastic bags from grocery stores. Harvey’s 72-year-old niece, Beverly Crump, who lives nearby and keeps an eye on him, says he taught her that “you get back more than what you give.” In all the years he assisted the community, the only time his pace slowed was when in 2003 he faced a severe health crisis. Given a diagnosis of colon cancer, doctors told him he would need chemotherapy and radiation, but the chance of survival was 45 percent. Not liking the odds, he made the wrenching decision to forego treatment, opting for a protocol of drinking special juices. Miraculously his tumor shrunk and he has received a clean bill of health every year since. “The Lord has blessed me, and as long as I can play for church and am doing His will, I’ll keep going,” he said. Harvey’s story is a fitting reminder of the Parable of the Talents (Matt 25:14–29). God has given everyone different abilities, and He wants us to multiply and expand and utilize those abilities for His Kingdom. Everything belongs to the Lord, so the talents that God gives us are His and should be used for His glory. We will all answer to God one day for what we do with our talents, gifts, and time. n Debbie Michel, associate director of Communication, Lake Union Conference.
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CONEXIONES
El valor de un buen liderazgo Recuerdo el momento cuando me nombraron coordinador de la obra hispana de la Asociación de Indiana. En ese entonces se estaba iniciando obra hispana en la ciudad de Indianápolis y un buen grupo de hispanos asistía a la iglesia los sábados. Rubén Rivera, un pastor dominicano, estaba a cargo del grupo, y la Asociación notó la cantidad de bautismos que estaba teniendo el pastor Rivera. Al reconocer que existía un gran potencial de crecimiento en otras partes del estado, se pensó que sería sabio nombrar a un coordinador para que la Asociación pudiera seguir apoyando la obra hispana. Estuve cinco años al frente de esta responsabilidad y aprendí mucho acerca de crecimiento de iglesia y cómo el Señor bendice cuando hay buena coordinación entre los hermanos, el pastor y la administración. Doy gracias a Dios por los coordinadores de la obra hispana en esta Unión. En particular aprecio mucho el liderazgo que ha desempeñado el pastor David García-Marenko en la Asociación de Michigan. La obra hispana ha crecido bajo su liderazgo y los pastores han sido edificados. Como es de conocimiento de muchos el pastor García ha decidido jubilarse este año. Lo vamos a echar mucho de menos y le deseamos todo lo mejor en la nueva etapa de su vida. A la vez estoy agradecido por el nuevo coordinador que se ha nombrado en su lugar: se trata del pastor Nilton García. El Señor ha bendecido su ministerio; comenzó su labor pastoral en el estado de Mississippi donde en siete años llegó a plantar seis iglesias y la membresía aumentó a más de 800 personas. En el año 2009 la Asociación de Gulf States lo nombró coordinador de la obra hispana donde la membresía creció de 1.463 a 3.200, la asistencia al campamento hispano creció de 350 a 1.600 personas y el diezmo
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aumentó de $677,000 a $1.2 millones de dólares. Al entrevistar al pastor me di cuenta que la clave de su éxito radica en su dependencia de Dios por medio de la oración, y el hacer evangelismo por medio de los grupos pequeños. Sin duda otro factor en su éxito es el apoyo de su esposa Sara Castro y de sus hijos Gabriel, Gustavo, Raabe y Rebeca. La familia García llegó al estado de Michigan el año pasado para pastorear la Iglesia Hispana de Berrien Springs y desde este mes el pastor García servirá también como coordinador hispano de la Asociación de Michigan. Pido sus oraciones a favor del pastor García a fin de que el Señor lo siga usando para cumplir el mandato de predicar el evangelio y así apresurar la venida de nuestro Señor. n Carmelo Mercado es el vicepresidente de la Unión del Lago.
▲ Carmelo Mercado
Los que se desempeñan en cargos de influencia y responsabilidad en la iglesia, debieran ir al frente en la causa Dios. Si avanzan de mala gana, otros ni siquiera se moverán. Pero su celo y su ejemplo “ha estimulado a muchos”. Cuando su luz brille esplendorosamente, mil antorchas se encenderán en su llama (Ministerio pastoral, p. 292).
▲ El pastor Nilton García y su esposa Sara Castro García.
FEBRUARY 2018 11
TELLING GOD’S STORIES
A God of Incredible Miracles By Shannon Kelly
▲ Selma Satonica (right), with her daughter, Rosie Wesolowski, describes how she miraculously escaped Poland and Germany during World War II
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Levi Shuler
LAST NOVEMBER, 87-YEAR-OLD SELMA SATONICA entered the Grand Rapids, Michigan, courthouse and proudly took her oath of allegiance to the United States of America, finally fulfilling her goal of becoming a legal U.S. citizen. This moment was a dream come true for the native German, since decades ago she almost did not make it to America. As World War II ravaged her homeland, the odds of survival and escape seemed stacked against her. But Selma and her family knew that all things are possible with God. Through a series of remarkable miracles and answered prayers, Selma and her family were delivered from the perils of the war, spared from death time and again. “God helped us,” Selma declared emphatically. Selma Satonica and her twin brother, Helmut, were born to Ferdinand and Elida Wutzke in 1930 in Slobodarka, Poland, then part of the Soviet Union and now the Ukraine. Their family would grow by three more children in the coming years. Although the family were ethnic Germans and spoke the German language, they also spoke Polish. After World War II broke out, this ability — along with many prayers — would help save their lives. The Bolsheviks, a Russia majority radical group, began hunting down and exterminating anyone caught
Shannon Kelly
speaking German. The officers stood at the windows of peoples’ homes to eavesdrop. “We had to close the window, because the Russian Bolsheviks would come listen if you talk German or Polish,” Selma recalled. “If you talk Polish, they let you go, but if you talk German, they take you.” Every time the family heard the Bolsheviks coming, they would pray to God, and Ferdinand instructed everyone to speak Polish. After hearing this language being spoken, the Bolsheviks left satisfied. Although knowing Polish helped save them from the Bolsheviks, Selma and her family were in danger of being hauled to concentration camps for another major reason — their faith. Selma’s father owned a shoe shop and, as a Seventh-day Adventist, he closed it every Sabbath. Then came a dire warning that Selma remembers clearly: “If we don’t open it [on Sabbath], they take you away in the concentration camp.” To avoid this fate, a worker was hired to open the store for Ferdinand on Saturdays. In 1939, Selma’s parents were forced from their home in Poland and moved to Freiburg, Germany. While awaiting placement, they stayed in a camp where they slept on straw mattresses and were served food containing pork. Selma’s parents explained to LAKE UNION HERALD
the SS commandant that, “We don’t eat pork. We’re Adventists.” The commandant threatened that those who did not eat the food provided and did not do as they were told should be shot, but the family did not back down. As usual, when faced with grave situations, the family prayed. God honored their integrity with a miracle. Instead of executing them, the SS commandant began serving them soup broth without pork, and cheese sandwiches. Seven months later, Selma and her family were settled in Southwestern Poland. The government evicted a family from their home so they could move in. Feeling terrible, Selma’s parents arranged a secret meeting with the evicted family to return the belongings they had been forced to abandon. Selma’s new residence was close to a barbed-wire enclosed Jewish ghetto. The unwilling inhabitants had to be inside by five o’clock sharp every evening; if they were late, the consequences were deadly. Once, to her horror, Selma witnessed a Nazi shoot a Jewish man for arriving seconds late. “It was 5:01 — 1 minute after,” she recalls, “and the Nazi shot that guy.” Selma and her family helped their Jewish neighbors every chance they got, often sneaking food to them under the fence. Each exchange was a risk to life should they be caught. Once, they almost were. “One Jew was so hungry,” Selma remembers. “My father sent me to the bakery to get some buns . . .” Selma delivered the buns to her father, who gave them to the Jew. A Nazi wearing civilian clothing saw the encounter. “The Nazi come up, he says, ‘For this, you could end up in concentration camp — that you feed the Jews!’” Her father breathed a prayer. Miraculously, the Nazi chose not to report the exchange. “I’ll close my eyes this time, but let it happen again and you’ll be in the concentration camp,” he warned. Eventually, Selma and her siblings were forced to join the Hitler Youth program. Selma and her younger sister, Gunda, joined the Bund Deutscher Mädel (BDM), the female division of Hitler Youth. Part of their uniforms included wearing a Swastika arm band, something Selma hated. There was fear that the boys, Helmut and Willie, would be drafted. At the time, boys as young as 10 were taken to war. God answered the family’s prayers and protected her and her siblings from this fate. Her father, Ferdinand, did not escape
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the draft, however, and was deported to Hamburg. Then, on January 18, 1945, during a blizzard, two German soldiers came to the family and instructed them to pack quickly. The German front was collapsing. Russians would invade within the hour, and their town would become a war zone. They had come to help the family escape, remembering the times the family had fed them. Together with two other families, Selma, her mother and her siblings piled into the military truck and headed for a train depot 50 miles away. After prayerfully passing a perilous checkpoint, they arrived to find the station bombed out. The determined soldiers drove another 100 miles to the next train station. There, they found a train overflowing with passengers. Selma thought it looked like a Christmas tree, with people sitting on top and hanging from the sides. It was so packed that the conductor told Selma’s mother to wait for another train. Uncertain of what to do, the family prayed for guidance. After praying, a man dressed in black approached them. “He looked like Johnny Cash,” Selma says, grinning, and told them, “Take this train. This is the last one.” With that, the mysterious man vanished. Recognizing this as an angelic encounter, Selma’s family boarded the train, which was indeed the last. Two hundred miles later, the train arrived in Cottbus, Germany. Selma and Helmut were sent in search of food, having eaten nothing on their exodus. To their dismay, stamps were needed to purchase food, and they had none. As they stood wondering what to do, a gust of wind blew something against Selma’s shoe: a string of red stamps! These were bread stamps, and provided Selma with two-and-a-half loaves of bread to share. “We come back by my mom in the depot, said, ‘Look, we got bread!’ My mother said, ‘Where did you steal that?’” Selma laughs. “We didn’t steal it! God provided.” The miracles never stopped, and with help from a Seventh-day Adventist Church, the family immigrated to America. Shoemakers were needed, which just happened to be Ferdinand’s occupation. The family leapt at the chance and sailed across the tempestuous ocean to begin a new life. n
THE MIRACLES NEVER STOPPED, AND WITH HELP FROM A SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH, THE FAMILY IMMIGRATED TO AMERICA.
Shannon Kelly is a journalism student at Andrews University.
FEBRUARY 2018 13
Living by Sacrifice AFTER PAYING OFF THEIR $100,000 DEBT, LEILANI AND ADRIAN LANGDON ARE ENRICHING THE KINGDOM OF GOD.Â
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FEATURE
David Quilátan
Leilani:
It was a humid day, the smell of salt water in the air, and I was getting ready to load the pick-up truck that would allow me to drive the 15 miles to the Majuro airport in the Marshall Islands. It was a day I first longed for and now almost dreaded. My year-long missionary trip was coming to an end. I would be returning to Andrews University to finish up my senior year. Something inside me was stirring, and it wasn’t sadness or excitement; it was doubt. Doubt as to whether my time was done here. I never received the okay from God to stay, so I boarded the plane back to the U.S. and started my senior year with my mind still in Majuro. I thought about my time there and realized that God had given me a desire and passion to serve Him and, one day, return to the mission field. However, after completing my senior year and graduate school, I got married to someone who had his own desires and dreams.
Adrian:
I remember the first conversation I had with Leilani regarding her deep desire and sense that God would call her again at some point to the mission field. While she spoke, it was like a beam of light came down from heaven and landed on her as she expressed a desire that has always been my life calling. Just kidding, I initially saw my dreams of highspeed Internet and air conditioning vanishing before my eyes. However, as it’s become habit for us, I promised we’d pray on it. I’ve always believed that if God desired for us to be together, then He would allow our desires to align.
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Leilani:
But alignment has its challenges. A few months before getting married, we were having all of the difficult conversations. Family, kids, sex and, when it came to finances, we realized there were some major differences in the way we viewed money. You see, I grew up believing that there were certain debts that you would just have your entire life (school, car, home). For this reason, when my father lost his job during my sophomore year of college, I did not hesitate to use loans to pay my tuition, fund a new car and, well, a new wardrobe. Why not? I’d be paying on them for the rest of my life so why not enjoy the journey along the
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FEATURE
David Quilátan
Leilani:
way. Throughout college, I held three jobs and had a full credit load, but always found myself struggling financially — behind on my credit cards and not able to pay the bills. I was working for money, instead of making money work for me. Upon graduation, I received a diploma — and owed the government well over $100,000 in student loan debt.
Adrian:
I, on the other hand, came from a family which lived within their means, saved to pay for items, and was debt-free. Debts that were acquired (home, school, car) were to be diligently paid off in a timely manner so that they could become assets. My father, being a principal at an academy, coupled with a college fund, gave me the opportunity to virtually have no need for student loan debt. Leilani and I quickly realized we had two different perspectives on something that was going to be a major part of our marital life. We understood that money fights were one of the leading causes of divorce, so we took some time to reconcile our differences from you and me, to we. Together we talked, together we prayed and together we started dreaming. What legacy did we want to leave? What did we want to continue to practice from our families? What did we want to leave behind? What was God saying about us and our future? Throughout this process, we realized several things, including this: God called us to be good stewards of the things He’d entrusted to us. God called us to be free and not slaves to the lender. God called us both to be follow Him on any mission (even those devoid of high-speed Internet) with abandon. However, remaining in debt and not learning how to handle our money with integrity, good stewardship and discipline, could cause us to miss out on the very plans He had for us.
Here’s the reality — having debt didn’t mean we couldn’t follow God, it just meant that we would have another reason as to why God’s will “doesn’t make sense right now.” It can complicate things when you feel God is calling you somewhere, and American Express shows up in its blue and white outfit exclaiming, “Not so fast! I’m not done with them yet!” In the midst of this process, we came across Dave Ramsey on the radio, whose perspective fell in line with where we were headed. This was all the confirmation we needed. We would start our marriage with one financial goal: GET OUT OF DEBT!
We began applying most of Dave Ramsey’s core principles immediately. Live on less than you make, pay cash for everything, give every dollar a name on paper every month, and pay off debt as fast as possible. This meant, less new clothes, no new technology, limited cable, no splurging on vacations, rarely eating out, and often having to say “no” to friends. We cut our credit cards, but it didn’t matter because we were determined. There were hard days, weeks and months, but there were a lot more moments of peace, clarity and divine intervention to keep us pushing. We saw God moving in ways that we know are only Him — weeks where we would have extra money show up but no idea how it got there. As we began telling our money what to do, I began noticing that money didn’t have the power over me it once had. It was beginning to work for me. After five long years, years of sacrificing and making, what some people would say, were extreme financial decisions, we were able to scream, “We’re debt-free!” with over $100,000 paid off. The feeling was like no other. The world felt available to us in a way it had never been before. We felt we could do anything, be anything, and go anywhere. The sense of freedom was simply exhilarating. We could truly move in God’s calling without feeling enslaved to money. We felt ready to start the next phase of our life, and were now both clearly open to God’s “mission” for us, regardless of where that may lead.
Adrian:
Shortly after, God clearly let us know it was time to leave Berrien Springs and move to Bolingbrook, Illinois,
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FEATURE
to immerse ourselves in the ministry at Bolingbrook Church. He was calling us to leave the place where we had bought our first home, had developed community and had given birth to two kids (Well, technically, Leilani gave birth to two kids.). To top it all off, we needed to make the transition in two months. I needed to transition from my job, sell my home, find a new home in Illinois, and figure out what to do with my toddler and infant, in two months. I remember feeling stressed but being assured that God would take care of everything. This was the moment God had been preparing us for. We even had an emergency fund, which would help us transition, if God ever called us to do so. While this was not yet overseas, it was “mission work,” and we were able to follow without feeling as if Sallie Mae was yelling, “Come back here!” God was ready for us to learn a new level of dependence we had yet to experience, and our journey to financial peace removed a weight that may have made following more challenging.
Adrian:
Once we decided to move, God was able to line up everything we needed in two months. It wasn’t always easy, but He was always clearly in control and continued to provide in a way where only He would get the glory. Now, a year later God has asked me to leave my job without having another job lined up. Humanly, some anxiety was present, but we are ready to see what God has next for us. We have done our best to take care of what God has given us, and He has taken care of everything else. We can continue to be on mission without any chains holding us back. n
‘‘
David Quilátan
Leilani:
Leilani and Adrian Langdon have been married for nine years. They are both licensed therapists who together provide pre-engagement, premarital and foundation counseling for newly married. Since their anniversary in August, they have set out on a mission to help 100 couples find their “Joint Purpose” using their social media video blog. Adrian is the music coordinator at Bolingbrook Church and recently opened a private counseling practice. Leilani is director of ministry and operations at Bolingbrook Church.
We have done our best to take care of what God has given us, and He has taken care of everything else.
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’’
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FEATURE
Reimagining Stewardship Stories Rich Aguilera, a/k/a the “Mud Guy from Guide magazine, embarked on the journey of teaching stewardship lessons to children, which culminated with a feature film. “The Mysterious Note,” filmed on location in Berrien Springs, Michigan and Chicago, is set to launch this spring.
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FEATURE
In late 2015, I was having a conversation with John Mathews, Stewardship director for the North American Division. He had already commissioned me to help produce several resources to help teach young people stewardship principles in a way they could understand at their level. We would often talk and strategize about other ways we could help young people understand stewardship principles. When I first started doing stewardship projects, I discovered that, as an adult, I did not have a full understanding of what it meant to be a good steward for God. Like many, when I heard about stewardship, I assumed the words “tithe and offerings” were soon to follow. I soon discovered how much bigger stewardship really was. I discovered that, at its core, stewardship was about acknowledging that God is the owner of everything we have, and that we have been placed as accountable managers of these things. This included being good managers of our time, health, environment, talents, families and, of course, our financial resources. I also learned that it was a way I could live my faith and trust in God. How we manage the important things can be divided into two basic choices. We can manage God’s way or society’s way. The choice we make will have a profound
impact on how our lives are lived. I suddenly realized that the topic of stewardship was huge, and life-impacting. It was now even more urgent that kids have an opportunity to understand God’s plan for how they should manage the things God has entrusted to them — to understand what it means to be faithful to God, being generous to others, trusting God with the most important things in their lives. We cannot wait until they become adults to teach them. They need to understand these valuable lessons now. My challenge was to figure out how to best communicate these principles to the young. During my conversation with Mathews, I suggested the idea of teaching kids about stewardship through feature film storytelling, a very effective way of communicating. Mathews liked the idea very much and, ironically, he already had had a similar idea. With a modest budget in place, I accepted the challenge of developing a simple, yet fun, story about stewardship for kids and their families. A little over two years have passed since that initial conversation. Pablo Fernandez, director of Photography,
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FEATURE
We want children to see that when they let go and let God, wonderful things will happen.
In addition to the main characters Natasha Potter-Diaz, Alex Aguilera, and Peter Tumangday, there are cameo appearances by Brenda Walsh, Dwight Nelson, Jaime Jorge, Ron Whitehead, Nathan Greene and even the dog, Stewardship Jack.
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and I have invested hundreds of hours to create a unique resource to help people of all ages understand that being a good steward is a life-changing concept. “The Mysterious Note� is a story about a Chicago family completely caught up in a self-serving lifestyle. When the businessman father brings his family along on a business trip to a small town in Michigan, an unexpected turn of events unfolds when he clashes with a store owner that manages his business using biblical principles of stewardship. In the meantime, his mischievous son befriends a couple of local kids and they discover a mysterious note that catapults them into a four-day adventure of mystery and self-discovery.
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FEATURE
Biblical principles are subtly weaved throughout this fictional story, teaching them that they should trust God with everything that has been entrusted to them to manage. We often think that the things we have are ours, but the film reminds us that God is the owner of all things. When we love and trust God with all the important things we manage, our outlook on life changes. Suddenly we find joy in a simple concept such as generosity. Generosity means we are letting go and trusting God with the things we manage. Generosity is a stewardship principle that calls us to be selfless and put others first. Generosity, in the truest sense of the word, requires one to be a cheerful giver. If you look at our culture, the enemy is working hard to teach the complete opposite. Instead of generosity, people are encouraged to be selfish with their possessions and accumulate as much wealth and things as they can. Instead of putting others first, society says, “I am number one!” Instead of being a cheerful giver, our culture promotes that it is better to receive than it is to give. That message seems to only get louder during the Christmas shopping frenzy. Other concepts taught in the film are learning to be content with what we have and that God will bless and reward those who are faithful to him in every aspect of life. When I finished writing the screenplay, I went through and identified over 70 different instances in the 90-minute film where a stewardship principle is taught. Of course, the goal was to teach these points without being preachy. The storytelling platform provided fun visual representations of what it could look like when one trusts God and is faithful to Him — no matter what. I was recently affirmed while speaking at a church in central Michigan last year. I had been telling the
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church about the movie project and encouraged them to eventually utilize the resource as an evangelism tool to connect with their friends and community. I will never forget when a teenage girl stood up and said, “Mr. Aguilera, thank you for making this movie. My friends won’t come to church, but I can definitely get them to watch a film with me.” I suddenly realized the evangelism potential was bigger than I had thought. Besides teaching young and old about stewardship principles, I realized that this could be a fresh new way for people to engage their friends, families, neighbors and co-workers for Christ. We decided that we also would produce a free online follow-up resource for people to use in a small group Bible study setting. People could gather and then discuss some of the crucial points of the film. In a casual setting, people would be able to compare the outcome of the decisions and actions from the film along with Bible texts that show the importance of being a good steward. In order to reach both kids and adults with the study guides, we decided to make a separate version for kids and adults that could be used in a variety of settings. I’d like to challenge you with a couple of questions. Ask yourself: “Can I help others connect with Christ through a story on film?” “Can the Holy Spirit use a story to turn someone’s heart toward God?” “Is it a good idea to experiment with unique, new ways to do evangelism?” I believe the answer is yes, yes, yes. Please keep this project in prayer. Join us in asking God to help this project be a blessing to kids and families all over. We want children to see that when they let go and let God, wonderful things will happen. If you feel God is compelling you to consider this film project as a potential tool for teaching and evangelism in your area, please connect with us by visiting our website at www.TheMysteriousNote.com. We plan to release the film during April/May 2018. We will be facilitating multiple methods for screening the film in your community. We also will eventually provide opportunities to organize smaller watch parties you can host in your home. I pray this tool will give glory to God and be a discussion-starter that may help people see that trusting God with the important details of our lives will be a rewarding decision that we will never regret. n
FEBRUARY 2018 21
Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ
S P EC I AL FEATU R E
was dispensed from the windows. The team treated 117 patients in 90 minutes. During the week, the team saw many patients with unique pathology, such as congenital deformities, heart disease, severe hypertension and childhood HIV. Physical therapist Mariela Velazquez taught patients how to use exercise bands, and pharmacist Jeiran Ghasemi worked non-stop to fill medications. Even if none were prescribed, every patient went home with vitamins and toiletries. Samantha Armando, an ER scribe,
Julie Busch
and Cliff Jean-Baptiste, a Seventh-day
▲ A team of 25 physicians, nurses and staff traveled to the Dominican Republic to serve those less fortunate.
Medical staff serve in the Dominican Republic
Adventist chaplain, spent time educating children on proper teeth brushing and hand-washing. One patient thought she was pregnant, but scared because she had several miscarriages in the past and wasn’t confident she was still pregnant, or that the baby was alive. Ranae Yockey, D.O., OB-GYN, and Karen Moore, OB director, were able to show the woman her baby on the ultrasound and the woman raised her hands and praised God. Throughout the trip, compassion, one of the organization’s core values, was on
A team of 25 physicians, nurses and staff from AMITA Health medical centers traveled to the Dominican Republic in
ram-shackled homes made of scraps of
display. “Sympathy is an emotion, but
tin with no plumbing or electricity.
compassion is a verb,” Rapp said. “It’s
“Our sacred calling was for each person
about actually doing something. It’s not
November for a seven-day trip to serve
we came in contact with to feel valued and
a feeling, it’s an action — a behavior.
those in punishing poverty.
cared for eternally,” said John Rapp, senior
Every person Jesus interacted with in
vice president and chief mission officer.
the Gospels was shown compassion. He
gynecology, pediatric and emergency
“The most important person was the one
wasn’t sitting back feeling sorry for peo-
primary care, along with a physician
who was in front of us at that moment.
ple. He was transforming them.” n
assistant, physical therapist, chaplain and
That’s how we approached each day.”
support staff attended the trip. The team
One day, after the team had seen all
set up a medical clinic each day in a batey
the people in the batey, they decided to
(a settlement where sugar cane workers
stop at another one down the road. Going
live) and treated more than 1,300 people
to two clinic sites in one day never had
that week.
been done before and people living there
Most of the workers were originally
had no idea the team was coming. The
from Haiti, and over time, they have
two buses pulled up on the side of the
found it difficult to leave life in the
road and, within 15 minutes, triage was
batey as they are no longer recognized
set up, six providers were seeing patients
as citizens of Haiti, nor the Dominican
under palm trees, and the bus was con-
Republic. They live in extreme poverty in
verted into a pharmacy where medicine
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Julie Busch is associate vice president of Communications for AMITA Health.
Julie Busch
Providers specializing in obstetrics,
▲ Team members treated hundreds of patients each day in local bateyes.
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SPE CIAL F EATU R E
Seek Knowledge, Affirm Faith, Change the World
Mural impacts hundreds of students Leila Celestin, Andrews University graduate student in the Department of Speech-Language Pathology & Audiology, is passionate about collaborative creativity. “A lot of people don’t believe they can be creative,” she says, “but in a group and with the right tools, they can do cool things.” So, when Carlisle Sutton approached Celestin about the idea of a mural for a local school, Celestin, who also holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts with a painting emphasis, was ready for a creative project. Edgar Burgara
Sutton, director of Community Engagement Integration & Service at Andrews, had contacted the Arts and Communications Academy (ACA) in Benton Harbor, Mich., to identify opportunities for service as part of Andrews
▲ Leila Celestin completes a section of the mural at the Arts and Communications Academy (ACA) in Benton Harbor, Mich.
University’s first Change Day. After discussions with the principal and assistant
be painting the mural, Celestin convert-
how powerful the images could be for
principal, it was decided a mural would be
ed images to simple black-and-white
students. Even the school superinten-
helpful in improving the physical appear-
silhouettes.
dent and the Benton Harbor High School
ance of the facility. “Minority students in
On September 14, Celestin and a small
principal stopped by to see the mural in
urban communities are not often present-
team of artists arrived at ACA by about
ed with positive images of people who
7:30 a.m. They projected the images on
look like them,” he says. “When we were
the wall, traced the outlines with pencil,
She says, “I hope that other students,
informed we would be allowed to paint
and then began to paint. An additional
artists and the church realize that creative
on the walls of the cafeteria, I thought we
group of Change Day volunteers arrived
work absolutely can be a service and
needed to use the space to create a truly
shortly after and helped push through
impactful. If there’s any possible way I
positive learning environment. This was
the bulk of the project. Celestin recalls,
can connect youth and young people in
an opportunity to have the students eat
“People said, ‘I’m not an artist!’ Then they
a creative outlet as it relates to service, I
with people who shared their heritage —
would get caught up in the little details of
people with challenges who excelled in
the black paint, step back and realize they
spite of the odds.”
just painted Muhammad Ali.”
Sutton, Celestin and Jace McKinney,
ACA students funneled through the
process. For Celestin, the mural was inspiring.
will take that opportunity, hands-down.” Sutton also was blessed by the project. “Hundreds of students will continue to sit and eat in a room that was transformed
also an Andrews student, developed
cafeteria as the images were being
as a result of the actions of a team from
the content for the mural, choosing to
painted. Some recognized the silhouetted
Andrews University. We really can change
include the faces of individuals such as
faces and exclaimed, “Oh, I know who
the world, one face at a time.” n
Nelson Mandela, the Obamas, Diana Ross,
that is!” For others, it was the first they
Angela Davis and Martin Luther King Jr.
learned the stories behind each image.
Because a wide variety of people would
Teachers were emotional, understanding
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Gillian Sanner, Media Communications manager, Andrews University
FEBRUARY 2018 23
NEWS
LOCAL CONFERENCE NEWS
Conference president retires MICHIGAN — Jay Gallimore, president of the Michigan Conference, retired from the office the end of January. Gallimore has served as president since November 1990 and previously served as the Conference’s executive secretary and ministerial director. “It has been my privilege and joy to Jonathan Logan
serve the Lord in ministry in Michigan,” he blessed to have such faithful, loving and devoted members that serve the Lord in His churches. Your devotion to the cause of God inspires all of our hearts, and I am so grateful for you.” He also noted that, “Michigan churches are special, not only for giving birth to the Seventh-day Adventist Church but for the strength they continue to bring to the
“It is my plan to continue to add my efforts to yours in winning souls and building up the Kingdom of our precious Savior.” worldwide mission.” He went on to say how blessed he has been to work, “with such fine pastors, teachers and office staff. I know and see their commitment and dedication. And their hard work is legendary and has certainly made my work much lighter.” As he moves into retirement, he said, “It is my plan to continue to add my efforts to yours in winning souls and building up the Kingdom of our precious Savior.” A graduate of Southern Adventist University and Andrews University, Gallimore also served as a pastor for 18 years, including director of the Northwest
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Andy Im
said in a statement. “This conference is so
▲ Jay Gallimore
Ministries Training Center for the North Pacific Union Conference. In addition, he also noted how much he has “enjoyed working with the Lake Union Conference.” “Actually,” he went on to say, “the Lake Union, with its spiritual collegiality, is one of the better kept secrets in the North American Division.” His greatest expectation is for the day when all of the Michigan churches and schools will experience a mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit, preparing the way for the coming of the Lord Jesus in glory. Gallimore’s passion for the Scripture and strong leadership will be missed. Alice Rasmussen, Pioneer Memorial Church member, as well as member of the Michigan Conference lay advisory coordinating committee, said, Gallimore “understood and valued E.G. White and God’s church in Michigan. He was passionate about youth ministry and camp meetings.” Besides his commitment to the Word of God, she said she was grateful for his support of agriculture program at Great Lakes Adventist Academy. n Debbie Michel, associate director of Communication for the Lake Union Conference.
RECORD OF SERVICE • 1970 – Graduated Southern Adventist University • 1970 – Carolina Conference intern pastor • 1974 – Ordained • 1975 – Graduated Andrews University with MA in Religion • 1980 – Kansas-Nebraska Conference pastor • 1983 – Washington Conference North West Ministries Training Director • 1987 – Michigan Conference Ministerial Director • 1989 – Michigan Conference Executive Secretary • 1990 – Michigan Conference President
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NEWS
take in a deep breath and hold it for 10 seconds while Tim kept track with a stop watch and Lori read a short statement about health. This was done 10 times. Next came 30 minutes of exercise in which the participants could choose what exercise they wanted to do — chair exercises, led by Lori; walking aerobics, Provided by Dotti Lambert
led by Dotti; floor exercises, led by Mike;
▲ From left to right: Mike Lambert, Dotti Lambert, Pastor Robert Benson, Lori Zemsta, Tim Zemsta. Participants
or outdoor walking (weather permitting), led by Tim. This was followed by a very informative video health lecture by Dr. David DeRose from LifeStart Seminars. A vegetarian food demonstration
could choose what exercise they wanted to do — chair exercises, led by Lori; walking aerobics, led by Dotti;
was next. All participants really enjoyed
floor exercises, led by Mike; or outdoor walking (weather permitting), led by Tim.
learning how easy it is to fix healthier food. They especially enjoyed tasting the finished product. At the end of each session, Robert Benson, Mesick Church pastor, shared with everyone a special Spiritual Health Nugget with encouraging words and prayer. This seminar has been very effective in that all participants want to continue with this new lifestyle that they have been Provided by Dotti Lambert
experiencing. Mike and Dotti plan on con-
▲ Choose to Lose participants, some pictured here along with seminars organizers, completed the 12-week health/weight loss series and graduated.
Health seminar attendees gain fresh insights MICHIGAN — Mesick Church members conducted a successful 12-week health/ weight loss seminar titled, “Choose to Lose, Continues.” The seminar, led by Mike and Dotti
participants have asked for Bible studies. The first Choose to Lose seminar was held in 2013 with 53 participants registering. The series lasted for an entire year and, at the end, 10 faithful participants graduated. The health message is the right hand of
When the seminar began in September,
our gospel message. We all need to do all
participants were weighed, body mea-
we can to get these messages out to as
surements were taken, and body mass
many people as we can before the door
index (BMI) and fat ratio were measured
of opportunity closes.
using a special machine. This was repeat-
If anyone is interested in presenting
ed again at the end of the series in order
a Choose to Lose seminar in your area,
to compare their results.
contact Mike and Dotti for more informa-
Each session began with weigh-ins, followed by special breathing exercises.
tion at 231-889-6119; dottilambert.12@g. mail.com n
Since our muscles need oxygen to burn
Lambert, had 15 participants, all of whom
calories, this is done before regular
completed the series and graduated on
exercises. Tim and Lori Zemsta led these
December 9.
exercises. Participants were asked to
LAKE UNION HERALD
tinuing to work with them next year. Two
Mike and Dotti Lambert, members of the Mesick Church in Michigan, have been presenting the health message to the public for over 20 years.
FEBRUARY 2018 25
NEWS
Prayer is a way for us to learn to allow God to give us what He wants.” How wonderful it would be if church pastors and congregational leaders planned now to sponsor their newly-baptized disciples to their conference’s prayer retreats or area prayer rallies. To find out more about your conference prayer ministry, contact your conference office. The 2018 Illinois Conference prayer retreat will take place Oct. 5–7, at Camp Akita. The speaker will be Joseph Kidder, professor of Christian Ministry at Andrews
Ron Schultz
University Theological Seminary. Kidder is the author of The Big Four and Majesty. Prayer retreat registration will open in August. Each first Tuesday of the month, our
▲ Participants at the Illinois Conference prayer retreat at Camp Akita last fall.
conference Prayer Ministry sponsors a
ILLINOIS — Launched in 2007, the
She shared the following report: We learned how to hear God — all 85 of
ing healthy disciple-making churches”
us from churches all over Illinois. We were
by encouraging a life of prayer in our
at Camp Akita for a prayer retreat week-
members.
end, eager to learn how to pray and enjoy
and the Hispanic churches of the con-
tude by going alone into the mountains
ference, these six prayer leaders agreed
to pray and connect with His Father in
to provide support and guidance for the
heaven. “Walshe also emphasized the need to
areas. Presently serving in this important
start our prayers with praises. With so
leadership role are: Modupe Hughes,
much to praise God about, we were told
Reggie Mary, Hector Ortiz, Linda Tuthill
to make a list of His attributes to use in
and Debbie Wilcut. These prayer lead-
our praise prayer life.
Each year, our conference Prayer
“Too often, our prayers are filled with
▲ Allan Walshe, chair of the Department of
requests, or thanks for responses to our
Discipleship at Andrews University Theological
requests. While that is important, by
Seminary was the prayer retreat speaker.
Ministry hosts a fall prayer retreat at
praising Him first for who He is and what
beautiful Camp Akita. Allan Walshe, chair
He does, we are lifted up. Walshe shared
of the Department of Discipleship at
that prayer is not merely a means for
Andrews University Theological Seminary,
us to get God to give us what we want.
26 FEBRUARY 2018
Ron Schultz is the Illinois Conference Prayer coordinator and Dorothy Deer is on the Communications Ministry
“Allan Walshe taught us to follow the example of Jesus who often sought soli-
committee.
nadprayerministries.org. n
the presence of God in our lives.
Representing five geographical areas
ers also serve on the conference prayer
www.ilcsda.org/prayer and http://www.
“Wow! What an awesome experience!
ports the conference mission of “grow-
local church prayer coordinators in their
resources are available by visiting http://
attended this year’s retreat entitled,
grown and expanded due to the blessing
to serve in a new, vital initiative.
rschultz@ilcsda.org. Additional prayer
Dorothy Deer from the Hinsdale Church “Learning to Enjoy the Presence of God.”
In 2016, six prayer leaders agreed
can participate, email Ron Schultz at
prayer retreat held this past October.
Illinois Conference Prayer Ministry has and guidance of God. It actively sup-
teleconference call. To find out how you
served as the speaker for the 11th annual
Ron Schultz
The power of praise and prayer
LAKE UNION HERALD
NEWS
EDUCATION NEWS
Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary revises Master of Divinity Program MICHIGAN — The Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary of Andrews University has revised the Master of Divinity (M.Div.) program, providing a sharper focus to the degree with fewprogram begins in the fall of 2018 and is designed to be completed in as little as two years by students with an undergraduate degree in theology. Students with degrees in other disciplines will follow a three-year plan to complete their M.Div. The previous 92-credit program took three years for the average student with a theology undergraduate degree to complete. The revised M.Div. allows the same students to finish the program in less time
Martin Lee
er credit hours required. The 78-credit
▲ In addition, a new dual degree, the M.Div./Master of Science in Community and International Development, has been added to the already-established M.Div. dual degrees (M.Div./Public Health, M.Div./Communication and M.Div./Social Work).
schools in a Curriculum Collaboration set
evangelistic and community activities,” said
up by the NAD. This collaboration reviewed
Moskala.
the learning needed by a pastor to deter-
Attention to the Adventist health
mine which should be studied at the M.Div.
message also was a significant factor that
level and which should be prerequisites or
shaped the M.Div. revisions.
if they have fulfilled all prerequisite cours-
part of students’ post-seminary internship
es and can demonstrate intermediate-level
training. Students who have degrees in dis-
new health and wellness course that
proficiency in biblical languages.
ciplines other than theology and sense a
will be taken by all M.Div. students,” said
“I’m thrilled about our newly revised
call from God to deepen their preparation
Teresa Reeve, associate dean. “Students
M.Div.,” said Jiří Moskala, Seminary dean.
for ministry will take prerequisite courses
will receive training in personal fitness and
“It brings together the best in scholarship
at the beginning of their M.Div. program.
learn to bring the health message to their
and praxis to provide a stellar biblical,
These essential courses will establish a
churches and communities.”
theological, historical and missiological
solid theological and practical foundation
To allow time for exercise, spiritual
framework for our students’ future minis-
on which their M.Div. studies can be built
life and work, along with the demands
try. Evangelism combined with a profound
to prepare them for excellence in ministry.
of classwork and ministry practice, the
“We are particularly excited about our
Revisions to the M.Div. program in-
maximum number of credits allowed
cluded dividing selected classes, such as
per semester for M.Div. students has
Issues in Daniel and Revelation into two
been reduced from 16 to 14 credits. This
by extensive consultation with North
courses, in order to provide students with
adjustment will not only prevent academic
American Division (NAD) advisory groups,
greater depth of study and strengthen
burnout but also sets a pattern for healthy,
faculty committees, administrators, stu-
their Adventist identity. Other courses that shared similar subject matter were com-
balanced living to maximize students’
dents and accreditation standards with the purpose of providing an enhanced degree.
bined. Theological and preaching courses
knowledge of the Bible and pastoral care is the first priority in our coursework.” The revisions to the M.Div. were shaped
“The revised M.Div. is shorter, deeper
were diversified to equip students to meet
and stronger,” said Fernando Ortiz, M.Div.
the needs of an increasingly complex
program director. “Students can now fulfill
world.
their educational goals more quickly without compromising the quality of the program.” One key aspect of the credit reductions has involved working with undergraduate LAKE UNION HERALD
“Congregational pastors, chaplains and
effectiveness in their future ministry. To learn more about the M.Div. or to enroll in the program, email mdiv@andrews. edu or visit andrews.edu/mdiv. n Samantha Angeles, Seminary student writer
youth pastors will be equipped to closely collaborate with our church schools, making the schools a center for their FEBRUARY 2018 27
NEWS
Confidential care group created for LGBT Andrews University students The University’s response to questions regarding care for students navigating sexual orientation and gender identity differences Over the past few years, Andrews University has been working to respond to questions about sexual orientation and
Having affirmed the University’s
a University-based group where students
gender identity that have arisen on our
commitment to biblical faithfulness, as
can receive spiritual and emotional care
Adventist campuses. Our commitment
detailed in the General Conference’s
for their lives that is in accordance with
from the beginning has been to hold and
statement on homosexuality,2 the Task
Adventist biblical teaching on human
put into practice the biblical teaching of
Force then moved to implement that
sexuality and the University’s code of
the Seventh-day Adventist Church, as
statement’s call for compassion: “Jesus
conduct (as noted above). In the words
expressed in our fundamental beliefs and
affirmed the dignity of all human beings
of the General Conference statement,
the official statements on human sexual-
and reached out compassionately to
Andrews University “recognizes that every
ity issued by the General Conference and
persons and families suffering the conse-
human being is valuable in the sight of
its North American Division.
quences of sin. He offered caring ministry
God, and we seek to minister to all men
and words of solace to struggling people,
and women in the spirit of Jesus. We also
ed a task force made up of faculty, staff,
while differentiating His love for sinners
believe that, by God’s grace and through
students, church leaders and board
from His clear teaching about sinful
the encouragement of the community of
members. This group worked closely with
practices. As His disciples, Seventh-day
faith, an individual may live in harmony
the relevant subcommittee of our Board of
Adventists endeavor to follow the Lord’s
with the principles of God’s Word.”
Trustees, which includes significant repre-
instruction and example, living a life of
sentation from church leaders. From this
Christ-like compassion and faithfulness.”
student club or organization, nor will
collaboration, the University established
Additionally, the task force also used
it be a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA), as
A few years ago, the University creat-
This new entity will not function as a
“A Seventh-day Adventist Framework for
the Andrews University’s Seventh-day
found on so many public campuses. It is
Relating to Sexual Orientation Differences
Adventist Theological Seminary state-
a confidential, members-only group that
on the Campus of Andrews University,”1
ment, “An Understanding of the Biblical
will minister spiritually and emotionally
which outlines our commitment to the
View on Homosexual Practice and
to a select number of students with the
biblical teachings and values of the
Pastoral Care,”3 as a guiding resource for
influence and care of faithful Adventist
Adventist church and establishes policies
how Andrews University should provide
mentors. While there will be campus
that call our students to uphold them. This
ministry and care for these students.
communication to make students aware
document sets the expectation that sexual
The task force reviewed recent research
of the group’s existence, our Framework
intimacy belongs only within marriage,
on over 300 Adventist young adults who
policy explicitly forbids students from
defined as “a lifelong union between a
identify as LGBT to learn more about their
advocating or instigating views or behav-
man and a woman.” Furthermore, the
struggles and discovered a great deal of
iors that are inconsistent with the biblical
University clarifies that students are to
hurt in this population, placing them at
teachings of the Adventist church.
refrain “from romantic behaviors between
a higher risk for depression and self-
individuals of the same sex.” This policy is
harm. At nearly all of our North American
Bernard-Fisher, director of the Andrews
strictly enforced through our student con-
Division colleges and universities, these
University Counseling & Testing Center.
duct processes, and the Adventist biblical
students have started unofficial groups
Reflecting on this responsibility, Fisher
position is taught in our classrooms and
— with little to no guidance from their
says, “As I think of God’s immeasurable
from our pulpits.
institutions. Our goal has been to create
love for all of His children, I am convinced
28 FEBRUARY 2018
Overseeing the group will be Judith
LAKE UNION HERALD
NEWS
that His spirit of love and grace will continue to guide our steps as we reach out to our own students through this new group that is committed to providing meaningful, Christ-centered care for these young men and women.” n 1. “A Seventh-day Adventist Framework for Relating to Sexual Orientation Differences on the Campus
of Andrews University”; Andrews University Student Handbook https://bulletin.andrews.edu/content. php?catoid=14&navoid=2578 2. General Conference Statement on Homosexuality https://www.adventist.org/en/information/ official-statements/statements/article/go/-/ homosexuality/ 3. “An Understanding of the Biblical View on Homosexual Practice and Pastoral Care”; Seventhday Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University
https://www.andrews.edu/sem/about/statements/ seminary-statement-on-homosexuality-edited-8-17-jm-final.pdf Accessed 12/30/17 https://www.andrews.edu/ agenda/48114/ Andrews University Public Relations
YOUTH NEWS
Youth build community through board games MICHIGAN — Young people in the church are finding new ways to build relationships and grow their faith. A’CampbellCon is an excellent example of innovative ministry founded by Jon and Kathleen Campbell, Jeanmark and Abigail A’Kessler, and Katelyn Campbell. They Kathleen Campbell
founded this homegrown tabletop gaming convention when they attended a game convention and discussed how they should create their own. Jon and Kathleen recently led a “Pray
▲ Left to right: A’CampbellCon founders, Abigail A’Kesslar, Jeanmark A’Kesslar, Jon Campbell, Kathleen
and Play” Grow Group at Pioneer Memorial
Campbell and Katelyn Campbell, celebrate a successful end to their convention.
Church, and over the past several years,
a student at Andrews University and
of community building. This experience
hosted increasing numbers of people at
how he has incorporated games into
showed me how much we are missing out
their house for soup and games. Playing
his pastoral ministry. Participants were
when we limit game nights to the usual
games over an entire weekend with their
inspired to think outside their usual use of
suspects of Uno, Taboo, dominoes and
friends was the initial idea, but it soon
games and use them as relationship- and
Pictionary.
developed ministry applications as well.
character-building tools. After vespers
“There is an entire gaming universe out
and through the Sabbath hours, tradi-
there, filled with phenomenal games that
attendees had the opportunity to play over
tional Sabbath games were offered, as
build your cognitive abilities, build your
100 board, card and acting games — a
well as some new and modified Sabbath-
social skills, and build your well-being,”
perfect opportunity to make connections
appropriate games developed by the staff.
said Michael. “I underestimated how much
During the weekend of Jan. 5-7, 56
and build community.
“I remember being bored on Sabbath
I would learn about myself and others
afternoons,” says one attendee. The
during this convention, but I now see
ences for beginner and veteran gamers
A’CampbellCon founders hope that the
board games as a bridge to establishing
alike and mixed players ages 10-70. One
games they developed will help make
healthy interactions between differing
attendee stated afterwards that, “Gaming
Sabbath something to anticipate.
philosophies, ideologies, cultures, ethnici-
The weekend provided many experi-
is a fantastic way of turning complete strangers into friends.“ Vespers speaker Kevin Wilson shared his experience with tabletop games as
LAKE UNION HERALD
Michael Polite, an A’CampbellCon
ties and personalities.” n
attendee, said, “I am absolutely mindblown at how many people are intimately invested in playing board games as a form
Jon Campbell, Kathleen Campbell, Katelyn Campbell, Jeanmark A’Kessler, Abigail Kessler and Nikki Warner.
FEBRUARY 2018 29
NEWS
NAD NEWS
an extensive annotated bibliography, podcasts, articles of current interest, commentaries on what is happening on the philanthropic scene, how-to advice and announcements. • Fundraising handbooks, Successful
Unique service of the NAD provides counsel on funding Thanks to the foresight of the North American Division leadership, the Division houses a unique service not replicated elsewhere. It supports a consulting and training office on the topics of philan-
Fundraising, consist of several editions: for churches and pastors, for general
offer of assistance from PSI, ranging
PSI also holds a National Conference
from a phone call to actual site visit.
with special guest speakers, classes
• PSI has collaborated with the Adventist Learning Community and now has available a course on fundraising. While
cost or low cost to all Division’s institutions.
https://www.adventistlearningcommu-
PSI is both a one-stop shop and a gateway
nity.com/ • PSI serves academies through the Model for Academy Philanthropy
based institutions, including Seventh-day
program and consulting in general for
Adventist organizations. Church member
those not enrolled in this program.
giving has changed, there is more demand
• Professionally equipped fundraisers are
for financial and managerial accountability,
needed in Adventist organizations. PSI
institutions are more complex for various
has a program that provides hands-
reasons, including the influence of the
on training, career opportunities, and
Internet, and financial resources must be
also a site on our web page that lists
expanded in ways that support productive
resumes and job openings. Most im-
and successful institutions.
portant is our new volume called Your Future in Fundraising. Our mantra is
aiding organizations raise funds but also
that you don’t have to be a professional
in developing an understanding that the
to do fundraising well, but you have to
best fundraising occurs in the context of
do it professionally. • PSI has developed a highly significant
profession today, but has its roots in the
project called the Fundraising Fitness
Bible, and practices of generosity have ex-
Test, which aids in understanding
isted since time immemorial. Fundraising
what strategies are working by using
doesn’t consist of “ten easy steps” but is a
information points from an organiza-
thoughtful process and requires an under-
tions database. This endeavor has truly
standing of principles and how to adapt
put PSI “on the map” of professional
them appropriately. The following are ways
fundraising.
• The PSI website, www.philanthropicservice.com, has on-line resources, such as 30 FEBRUARY 2018
• PSI does training on site — board,
organizations of all types in general.
comprehensive aspects of fundraising.
and all NAD entities.
available on PSI’s website.
committees, and the churches and NAD
Service for Institutions (PSI) available at no
in which PSI can be of assistance to any
periodically and a library of webinars is
AdventSource.org but come with an
and useful for all who wish to learn the
healthy organizations. Fundraising is a full
fundraising strategies are offered
version. These can be purchased from
resources and assistance of Philanthropic
That’s where PSI can be of assistance, in
donors. • Webinars on current or standard
building committee, other relevant
geared toward pastors, it is accessible
Fundraising is a reality for today’s faith-
case for support and identify potential
audiences, Spanish version, Canadian
thropy and fundraising, and makes the
to services.
PSI helps an organization develop its
• PSI assists with capital campaign planning, or review of existing plans. Information is included in Successful Fundraising.
and great networking opportunities. Watch for notices on our website, www. philanthropicservice.com. • PSI helps with materials preparation, such as reviewing fundraising materials, from letters to proposals. • PSI has many informational and instructive materials that can be shared, including a lending library and many on-line resources. • PSI can assist in researching funders — foundations, some businesses and government. It can guide in identifying individual donors. • PSI is available to answer questions and give guidance on an on-going basis. • On occasion, the capacity building grant available from PSI allows extras an organization may not be able to afford, such as a database or a local trainer to speak to a committee or board. • PSI CANNOT actually raise funds with or for an organization, but neither does any credible consulting firm. Rarely will a consultant actually raise funds. But we can provide much advice and support as organizations raise funds. Please peruse the dynamic and helpful website, www.philanthropicservice.com, and contact PSI at: 301.680.6133, helpdesk@philanthropicservice.com or info@ philanthropicservice.com n Lilya Wagner, CFRE, director, Philanthropic Service for Institutions.
LAKE UNION HERALD
NEWS
Conference, like ADRA, and independent ministries run by Adventist lay ministries, like Maranatha International. As of June 2017, Seventh-day Adventist Christians make up only 0.27% of the world’s population, leaving billions who have never heard of the Seventh-day Adventist Church or its life-changing message. Despite the increase in service opportunities and the number of people ready to serve, the two groups are currently not connecting as much as they could. VividFaith will work to streamline the process so that everyone who wants to serve has the opportunity. “VividFaith will be open to anyone, Adventist or non-Adventist, who has the
GC NEWS
Adventist Church launches new mission website VividFaith aims to make it easier
desire to do ministry with the Adventist organizations. VividFaith will be a one-
Church,” says Osorio. “Members will
stop place where they can search for all
discover a place to find mission opportu-
the service opportunities offered by the
nities and/or create social interaction with
Adventist Church and other supporting
other people engaged in mission.
ministries. “VividFaith will be a unique place to
Future versions of VividFaith will include resources for those serving and a social
to connect missionaries with service
find or post mission opportunities, similar
media platform where family and friends
opportunities
to a global, searchable index,” says Italo
can support those abroad. On their
Osorio, architect of VividFaith. “Based on
temporary website, vividfaith.com, you
The Seventh-day Adventist Church
profile information, VividFaith will send
can sign up to receive updates on the
announced a new website and app for
notifications when a mission opportuni-
developments of VividFaith. n
missions during the 2017 Annual Council
ty matches the interests of a member.
meetings. Expected to launch August
Or the moment an organization adds
2018, VividFaith will be a virtual commu-
a mission opportunity, VividFaith will
nity where those who want to serve the
immediately tell the number of possible
Church can find places around the world
candidates fitting the request.”
to serve and then be matched with the
The practice and culture of missions
opportunities for which they are best
and service has been a part of the fabric
suited.
of the Seventh-day Adventist Church since
VividFaith will be unique from other
1874 when John Nevins Andrews left the
job-search websites as it will allow organi-
United States for Europe. In those early
zations to do more than create and post
days, managing resources, people and
service opportunities. Organizations will
logistics of international service began
be able to be notified of and filter through
as a small centralized operation at the
interested applicants. They also will be
Adventist Church world headquarters.
able to share unique details about their
Today, service opportunities are not
region and offer resources and tools to
through just one office. They are of-
those applying.
fered by many departments and entities
Similarly, those interested in serving will no longer need to contact individual
LAKE UNION HERALD
Fylvia Fowler Kline, Adventist News Network staff
▲ Video available at Vividfaith.com
within the Adventist Church, by Adventistowned entities outside of the General
FEBRUARY 2018 31
CALENDAR AT-A-GLANCE
February Jan. 1–June 30
Feb. 3
WISCONSIN CONFERENCE
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
Walk for Life Adventist Fitness Plan
AU Wind Symphony Winter Concert
Conference-wide
Howard Performing
Contact Juanita Edge at
Arts Center
jedge@wi.adventist.org
For tickets,
Feb. 1–3 ANDREWS UNIVERSITY Racial Reconciliation conference with Ty Gibson and Michael Nixon. For more information, visit: https://againstthewall.org
call 888-467-6442 or visit http://howard.andrews.edu
Feb. 4–9 MICHIGAN CONFERENCE Winter Blind Camp Camp Au Sable, Grayling, Mich. Contact Diana Bruch at
Feb. 2–4
dbruch@misda.org
MICHIGAN CONFERENCE
Feb. 8–10
Public Campus Ministries Winter Retreat Camp Au Sable, Grayling, Mich. Contact Jermaine Gayle at Jgayle@misda.org
Feb. 3 INDIANA CONFERENCE Pathfinder Bible Experience Area churches http://www.indysda.org
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY Newmyer Classic Basketball Tournament Johnson Gym, Andrews University http://aucardinals.com
Feb. 17
Feb. 24
Feb. 10
INDIANA CONFERENCE
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
It Is Written Rally with John Bradshaw
Cardinals vs. Alumni Hockey Game
Glendale SDA Church,
Ice Box, South Bend, Ind.
Indianapolis
Contact AU Student
Arts Center
http://www.lucyouth.org
Activities at 269-471-3615
Free admission
Feb. 22–25
Feb. 28
Feb. 16–18
MICHIGAN CONFERENCE
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
Teen Bible Camp
Showcase Concert
Camp Au Sable,
Howard Performing Arts
Grayling, Mich.
Center
Contact Judy Ramos at
Free admission
“Love Is in the Air” choral concert Howard Performing
LAKE UNION CONFERENCE Lake Union Youth Evangelism Congress Shipshewana, Ind. http://www.lucyouth.org
32 FEBRUARY 2018
jramos@misda.org
AU Music Festival
LAKE UNION HERALD
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Churches, schools, conferences, institutions and organizations may submit announcements to the Lake Union Herald through their local conference communication directors. An easy way to do this is to visit the Lake Union Herald website at http://www.herald. lakeunion.org and submit the announcement online. Readers may verify dates and times of programs with the respective sources, as these events are subject to change. Submission eligibility guidelines are listed at http://www.herald.lakeunion.org.
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY HOWARD PERFORMING ARTS CENTER EVENTS MARCH 3, 4:00 p.m.: AU Music Festival Concert: Choir & Orchestra, directed by Stephen Zork. Free admission. MARCH 10, 8:00 p.m.: AU Symphony Orchestra, directed by Claudio Gonzalez. Tickets required.
ASI LAKE UNION SPRING FELLOWSHIP will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Benton Harbor/ St. Joseph, Mich., April 20–21. Sessions begin Friday afternoon, so plan to get there early to get the most out of the weekend! Come, enjoy and fellowship with us as we share testimonies and profound gratitude to our Savior. You will
have the opportunity to enjoy exhibits, or request to bring your own. For more information, call 269-473-8200 or email communications. luasi@gmail.com. You also can visit our website at http://www.asilakeunion.org.
MICHIGAN MICHIGAN CONFERENCE OFFICE HAS MOVED! Our new physical address is 5801 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48917; mailing address is P.O. Box 24187, Lansing, MI 48909. The switchboard number is 517-316-1500 (direct line numbers will not change), and the fax number is 517-3161501. Hours are Mon.–Thurs. 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Fri. 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY MUSIC & WORSHIP CONFERENCE, APRIL 5–7: Hosted across the University campus, this conference will provide biblically-grounded training opportunities for church musicians, pastors, worship leaders, and anyone involved in worship ministry. Presenters will discuss principles and practices for incarnational worship ministry that glorifies God, transforms worshipers and changes the world. As a participant, you will have access to a variety of seminars, workshops and worship experiences. Come and be inspired to honor God more fully in your worship. Be equipped to minister more effectively through worship and worship music, participating in God’s healing and reconciling work. Connect with others who share your passion for God and commitment to service. Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to worship and learn together! For more information, visit https://www.cye.org/ministries/ music--worship.
LAKE UNION Offerings FEB. 3 Local Church Budget FEB. 10 Word Budget (Emphasis: Adventist Television Ministries) FEB. 17 Local Church Budget FEB. 24 Local Conference Advance
Special Days
FEB. 3–24 Black History Month FEB. 10 Christian Marriage Sabbath FEB. 10 Health Ministries Sabbath FEB. 10–17 Christian Home and Marriage Week FEB. 17 Christian Home Sabbath
LAKE UNION HERALD
FEBRUARY 2018 33
MILEPOSTS
Within the Lake Union, the officiating pastor or church communication leader is responsible for submission of information to this column. Forms are available in print format, or they can be filled out and submitted directly online. Milepost forms are available at http://www.herald. lakeunion.org. Conference addresses and phone numbers are listed in the masthead on the inside back cover.
OBITUARIES BAUER, David H., age 85; born Nov. 19, 1931, in Pittsburgh, Penn.; died Oct. 24, 2017,
Karen Case; sister, Eileen Horne; and 10 grandchildren. Funeral services were conducted by Rodlie
Survivors include his wife, Veda (Van Etten); daughters, Eileen Lesher and Martha Keough; sister, Jean Krenrich; and several grandchildren. Memorial services were conducted by Dwight K. Nelson, Arnold Swanson, Glenn Russell, Najeeb Nakhle, Stephen Zork, Andrea Luxton and Niels-Erik Andreasen, and interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Berrien Springs. MORRIS, Richard I., age 88; born Sept. 16, 1928, in Decatur, Mich.; died May 13, 2017, in St.
Ortiz, and inurnment was in Rose Hill
Joseph, Mich. He was a member of the Pioneer
Cemetery, Berrien Springs.
Memorial Church, Berrien Springs, Mich.
FISHER, Paulette K. (Jannasch), age 73; born
Survivors include his nephew, Ron Morris; and
April 7, 1944; died Nov. 3, 2017, in South Bend,
many other nieces, nephews, great-nieces and
Ind. She was a member of the South Bend First
great-nephews.
Hospital Foundation.
Church.
Funeral services were conducted by Don
Survivors include his wife, Marilyn; and sister,
Survivors include her husband, Ron; son,
Dronen, and interment was in Rose Hill
Kenneth; daughters, Korilyn Hauersperger and
Cemetery, Berrien Springs.
Karin Fisher; and six grandchildren.
MEYER, Donald E., age 86; born Sept. 27,
Funeral services were conducted followed
1930, in Mishawaka, Ind.; died Aug. 12, 2017,
by graveside services, and interment was in
in South Bend, Ind. He was a member of the
Springs.
Sumption Prairie Cemetery, South Bend.
South Bend First Church.
BERGER, Irene A. (De Pas), age 98; born Aug.
HELCHER, Richine (Nau), age 65; born July 5,
Survivors include his wife, Ardis (Hicks);
1952, in Cheboygan, Mich.; died Nov. 7, 2017, in
sons, Jon A. and Edwin H.; daughter, Cheryl
Flint, Mich. She was a member of the First Flint
A. Roberts; brother, Leonard E.; four grand-
Wilson Church.
Church.
children; two step-grandchildren; and two
Survivors include her son, Russell F.; daughters,
Survivors include her husband, Harry “Hank”;
great-grandchildren.
Beverly Postler and Nancy Larsen; five grand-
son, Michael D.; daughter, Patricia Lynne
Memorial services were conducted by Throstur
children; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Truett; brothers, Richard Ranville, and Dennis,
Thordarson, with private inurnment.
Funeral services were conducted by Tom
Joseph and Wilbur Nau; sister, Marilynn “Robin”
SNYDER, Andrew J., age 89; born April 13,
in Hendersonville, N.C. He was a member of the Pioneer Memorial Church, Berrien Springs, Mich. He served as vice president for Development and Public Relations at Andrews University, and as president of the Hinsdale
Ruth Spangenberg. Memorial services were conducted in Hendersonville and Berrien Springs, and interment was in Rose Hill Cemetery, Berrien
31, 1919, in Wilson, Mich.; died Oct. 28, 2017, in Marquette, Mich. She was a member of the
Hubbard, and interment was in Wilson
Heid; and five grandchildren.
Cemetery.
Funeral services were conducted by Jonathan
Joseph, Mich. He was a member of the Pioneer
DOWELL, Charles R., age 84; born Aug. 15,
Chitwood, and interment was in Flint Memorial
Memorial Church, Berrien Springs, Mich.
1932, in Knoxville, Tenn.; died April 16, 2017,
Park Cemetery, Mt. Morris, Mich.
Survivors include his wife, Julia (Tomson); son,
in St. Joseph, Mich. He was a member of the
KOCH, Gunter W., age 92; born Nov. 25, 1924,
David; daughters, Denise Grentz, Rebecca
Pioneer Memorial Church, Berrien Springs,
in Tokyo, Japan; died July 8, 2017, in Niles, Mich.
Mich.
He was a member of the Pioneer Memorial
grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife, Judith Ann (Deck);
Church, Berrien Springs, Mich.
Funeral services were conducted by Glenn
sons, Randy and Mike; daughter, Teri Guzicki;
Survivors include his sister, Hildegard
Russell, and interment was in Rose Hill
sisters, Nancy, Martha and Kathy; and six
Landschoot; two grandchildren; and four
Cemetery, Berrien Springs.
grandchildren.
great-grandchildren.
STAFFORD, Beatrice (Waltz), age 101; born
Memorial services were conducted by Don
Funeral services were conducted by Don
Feb. 23, 1916, in Ledford, Ill.; died Nov. 2, 2017,
Dronen, and inurnment was in Rose Hill
Dronen, and interment was in North Shore
Cemetery, Berrien Springs. EKKENS, Kathleen (Moon), age 77; born Dec. 18, 1939, in Battle Creek, Mich.; died Oct. 21, 2017, in Berrien Springs, Mich. She was a member of the Pioneer Memorial Church, Berrien Springs.
1927, in Diller, Neb.; died March 8, 2017, in St.
Becker and Rachel Kroncke; three sisters; eight
in Harrisburg, Ill. She was a member of the
Memory Garden Cemetery, Coloma, Mich.
Eldorado (Ill.) Church.
LESHER, William R., age 92; born Nov. 14,
Survivors include her son, Phillip; daughters,
1924, in Carlisle, Penn.; died Aug. 18, 2017, in Loma Linda, Calif. He was a member of the
Linda Stafford and Susan Cornett; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; two
Pioneer Memorial Church, Berrien Springs,
great-great-grandchildren.
Mich. William was very involved in mission ser-
Funeral services were conducted by Dale
Survivors include her son, John Holland;
vice, a General Conference administrator and
Barnhurst and Tom Ferguson, and interment
daughters, Laura Keller, Julie Verthelle and
president of Andrews University.
was in Bramlet Cemetery, Muddy, Ill.
34 FEBRUARY 2018
LAKE UNION HERALD
CLASSIFIEDS
All classified ads must be sent to your local conference for approval. No phoned ads will be accepted. Allow at least eight weeks for publication. Fifty words maximum. No limit of insertions. Rates: $36 per insertion for Lake Union church members; $46 per insertion for all others. A form is available at http://www.herald.lakeunion. org for printing out and filling in your ad. Ads must be prepaid. Make money order or check payable to the Lake Union Conference. There will be no refunds for cancellations. The Lake Union Herald cannot be responsible for advertisements appearing in its columns, and reserves the right to edit ads in accordance with editorial policies. The Lake Union Herald does not accept responsibility for typographical errors. Submission eligi-
BLACK HILLS LIFESTYLE MEDICINE CENTER: Tired of diabetes medications, migraine headaches, or not feeling your best? Then come to Black Hills Lifestyle Medicine Center to find the fountain of youth and the secrets to well-being. We offer a health program each month, so call 605-255-4101 for information and to reserve your space. Find more details online at http:// bhlmc.org. BHLMC — Your Wellness Retreat.
bility guidelines are listed at http://www.herald.lakeunion.org.
MISCELLANEOUS
FOR SALE PATHFINDER/ADVENTURER CLUB NAME CREST: Order your Pathfinder and Adventurer club name crest at http://www.pathfinder clubnames.com. For more information, call 269-208-5853 or email us at pathfinderclub names@gmail.com. HEALTH MINISTRY COORDINATORS AND PERSONAL MINISTRIES DIRECTORS. Beautiful, inexpensive, witnessing supplies: magazines, brochures, tracts and books. Free catalog and sample. Call 800-777-2848 or visit http://www.FamilyHeritageBooks.com.
AT YOUR SERVICE AUTHORS: Call TEACH Services at 800-3671844 for your free manuscript evaluation. Let us help you make your book a reality. We publish all book formats, including eBooks, and provide worldwide distribution. Find our new titles at http://www.TEACHServices.com or ask your local ABC. Look for Used SDA Books at http://www.LNFbooks.com. MOVE WITH AN AWARD-WINNING AGENCY. Apex Moving & Storage partners with the General Conference to provide quality moves for you. Call us for all your relocation needs. Contact Marcy Danté at 800-766-1902, or visit our website: http://www.apexmoving.com/adventist.
TRAVEL/VACATION ONE BEDROOM CONDO FOR RENT IN HONOLULU, HAWAII, in Nu’uanu, relaxing and affordable. Minutes to beaches, Chinatown, and hiking! Clean, comfortable, like new. Sleeps 6 comfortably. Furnished kitchen; washer/dryer and more. Free parking. For more information, visit http://honcentralsda. org or call 808-524-1352.
LAKE UNION HERALD
EMPLOYMENT
WANTED TO BUY AND FOR SALE used SDA books new or old. Your Story Hour tapes and games. For more information, contact John at 269-781-6379. SOUTHERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY OFFERS MASTER’S DEGREES in business, computer science, counseling, education, global community development, nursing, religion and social work. Flexibility is provided through some online and many on-campus programs. Financial aid may be available. For more information, call 423-236-2585 or visit https://www. southern.edu/graduatestudies. TESTIMONIES FROM FORMER EAST EUROPEAN COMMUNIST COUNTRY: Vladimir Slavujevic and his family have testimonies to share with you through music and spoken word. Come celebrate God’s blessings past and present through heartfelt songs of victory in Christ. In addition to being an active musician/educator in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, and Andrews University as an adjunct voice instructor, he has recorded/appeared on 3ABN and performed as a soloist at the 2010 GC in Atlanta. For more information, contact Vladimir at vladoslavujevic@yahoo.com or call 269-473-2826. Appointments accepted through March 31.
THE EDUCATION AND PSYCHOLOGY DEPARTMENT at Southwestern Adventist University invites applications for a full-time faculty position. Preferred candidates will hold a doctorate in Educational Psychology or Secondary Education and have university teaching experience. Master’s degree considered. Must have or be able to obtain a Texas teaching credential. Send CV and cover letter to Donna Berkner at dberkner@swau.edu. SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY seeks a full-time Systematic Theology faculty member for 2018-2019. Ph.D. preferred; master’s degree considered. Successful candidates will have teaching and pastoral experience. Send CV and cover letter to Amy Rosenthal at arosenthal@swau.edu. SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY is looking for a full-time English professor with a Ph.D. Candidates with a degree in any literature or writing specialty will be considered. Send a CV to Judy Myers Laue, Chair, Department of English, Southwestern Adventist University, 100 W. Hillcrest St., Keene TX 76059, or lauej@swau.edu. WALLA WALLA UNIVERSITY IS HIRING! To see the list of available positions, go to http:// jobs.wallawalla.edu. OB-GYN AND PEDIATRICIAN NEEDED for Adventist-owned/operated Rural Health Clinic
Sabbath Sunset Calendar
Berrien Springs, Mich. Chicago, Ill. Detroit, Mich. Indianapolis, Ind. La Crosse, Wis. Lansing, Mich. Madison, Wis. Springfield, Ill.
Feb 2
6:00 5:06 5:47 6:04 5:16 5:52 5:10 5:18
Feb 9
6:10 5:15 5:56 6:13 5:25 6:01 5:20 5:27
Feb 16
6:18 5:24 6:05 6:21 5:35 6:10 5:29 5:35
Feb 23
6:27 5:32 6:14 6:29 5:44 6:19 5:38 5:43
Mar 2
6:36 5:41 6:22 6:37 5:54 6:28 5:47 5:51
Mar 9
6:44 5:49 6:31 6:44 6:02 6:36 5:56 5:58
FEBRUARY 2018 35
CLASSIFIEDS
on the campus of Weimar Institute at Weimar, Calif. Competitive pay. For more information, call Randall Steffens at 615-604-0142. ANDREWS UNIVERSITY seeks a University Faculty — Architecture. The Assistant/ Associate Professor of Architecture holds a faculty appointment and has academic, service and scholarship responsibilities consistent with the mission and philosophy of the School of Architecture & Interior Design. This individual demonstrates competence in design studio education, teaching, and curriculum development at the graduate and undergraduate levels. For more information, visit https://www.andrews.edu/admres/jobs/show/ faculty#job_2. ANDREWS UNIVERSITY seeks an Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care and Psychology. The Assistant Professor of Pastoral Care and Psychology will teach a full load of courses in pastoral care, counseling, advise and provide mentorship to Seminary students, provide spiritual and therapeutic counseling services to seminarians, direct the psychological screening of applicants to Seminary, provide advocacy and leadership in the area of pastoral care and counseling to the Seminary community, participate in Seminary and University life, and carry regular faculty responsibilities related to teaching, service, research and administration. For more information, visit https://www.andrews.edu/admres/jobs/show/ faculty#job_3. PACIFIC UNION COLLEGE is seeking a candidate for Facilities Associate Director in our Facilities Maintenance Department. Preference is experience in planning, budgeting, maintenance of College facilities, in addition to strong leadership/interpersonal skills/team leader. Responsibilities in roads, building safety, HVAC, water distribution/treatment, general building maintenance, compliance for hazardous materials, etc. For more information or to apply, please call 707-965-6231, or visit http:// puc.edu/faculty-staff/current-job-postings. PACIFIC UNION COLLEGE is seeking fulltime positions in our Facilities Management Department. Looking for positions of Tradesman Supervisor-Painter, and Tradesman 1-Carpenter. Preference is for training and applied experience in trade areas of general painting, and carpentry. For Painter, experience in color/finish/application/etc. For
36 FEBRUARY 2018
Carpenter, experience in cabinet making/floor coverings/installation/etc. For both, able to be team player, handle multiple projects. For more information or to apply, please call 707965-6231, or visit http://puc.edu/faculty-staff/ current-job-postings.
Megan Heidtbrink at megan.heidtbrink@ucol lege.edu. For further information, visit http:// www.ucollege.edu/faculty-openings.
SOUTHWESTERN ADVENTIST UNIVERSITY is seeking an online adjunct professor/s to teach part-time courses in newly-organized Senior Living Management Certificate program through the Department of Business. Submit cover letter and current CV/résumé to denise. rivera@swau.edu. Candidates must have industry-specific (Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care) knowledge and/or experience and a minimum of a master’s degree in a related field. Preference given with prior teaching experience.
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY seeks a Director of Human Resources. The Director of Human Resources is the chief human resources officer of the University and serves as an advocate regarding benefits, policies and practices that would have a positive impact on employees and as an advisor and strategic partner to University administration. Provides leadership through the management of a comprehensive human resources department, ensuring that all HR programs and initiatives are integrated and effective in supporting the overall mission, goals and objectives of the institution. For more information, visit https://www.andrews. edu/admsvs/jobs/manage/approve/1600.
PACIFIC UNION COLLEGE is seeking an Associate VP of Finance. Responsibilities include strategic financial planning/leadership, financial/operational budgets, and working with chief leadership to develop and implement financial goals/investments. Preference is for a bachelor degree in Business/Accounting, CPA or master’s degree in Business Administration, 3–5 years’ experience in management role, higher education experience. For more information or to apply, please call 707-965-6231 or visit http://puc. edu/faculty-staff/current-job-postings.
CAPTAIN GILMER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL (Fletcher, N.C.) is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Kindergarten Teacher. This full-time, salaried position (with benefits) is responsible for fostering the intellectual and social development of children in the first phase of their elementary school experience. Duties will include both teaching and staff duties. Position requires current basic NAD teaching certification; candidates must be a member in good standing of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Contact the Fletcher Academy, Inc. HR Manager at 828-209-6714.
PACIFIC UNION COLLEGE is seeking a Controller in the Financial Administration Department. Responsibilities include leadership and supervision over the accuracy and productivity of day-to-day financial activities, collaboration on annual budgeting, provision of financial analysis tools/metrics, oversight of the operations in the accounting department, including strategic thinking for department goals and objectives. Preference is bachelor’s degree in Accounting or related field. CPA license preferred, as well as minimum of five years’ experience and supervisory responsibilities. For more information/to apply, call 707965-6231 or visit http://puc.edu/faculty-staff/ current-job-postings.
REAL ESTATE/HOUSING SUMMIT RIDGE RETIREMENT VILLAGE: An Adventist community in a rural setting that offers affordable homes or apartments and caring neighbors, with a fellowship you’ll enjoy. On-site church, planned activities and transportation, as needed. Wolfe Living Center offering independent living and nursing home. For more information, visit http://www. summitridgevillage.org or call Bill Norman at 405-208-1289.
UNION COLLEGE seeks a Seventh-day Adventist PA faculty member, master’s degree required. This position will be responsible for both didactic and clinical components of the curriculum. Prior teaching experience desired but not necessary. Send CV and references to
LAKE UNION HERALD
PARTNERSHIP WITH GOD
By the Numbers 2016 LAKE UNION TITHE
This information shows some examples of how our tithe supports God’s mission in the Lake Union and beyond.
30%
24%
21%
$23,753,922
$18,954,702
$16,773,626
CHURCH MINISTRIES Pastors and Bible workers salaries and benefits, expenses of departmental leadership such as Children’s Ministries, Pathfinders, Personal Ministries, camp meetings, church planting, and evangelism
SHARED WITH WORLD CHURCH AND NORTH AMERICAN DIVISION
EDUCATION Elementary schools, senior academies and Andrews University
21% $16,123,152 SUPPORT SERVICES Medical expenses, retirement benefits, plant services, and administration
3% $2,020,778 SPECIAL SERVICES Communications, health education, community services, disaster response and planned giving
1% $868,051 LITERATURE EVANGELISM Subsides to support literature sales efforts
100% $78,494,231 MEMBERSHIP SUPPORT [Tithe]
A brochure with further details is available from your local conference.
LAKE UNION HERALD
FEBRUARY 2018 37
O N E V O I C E / YOUNG ADULTS SPEAK THEIR MINDS
Honor Roll
WHEN MY JOB WAS ON THE LINE, MY CHURCH STEPPED IN
Lexy Scheele
By Lauren Galang
▲ Lauren Galang
A MONTH BEFORE MY BAPTISM, I nervously approached my manager to tell her of my decision to honor God’s law and keep the seventh day holy. My boss replied, “Well, you realize working Saturdays is a requirement for this job, right?” and “You committed to Saturdays when I hired you.” Her response didn’t take me by surprise. I knew that my availability to work weekends was always a “priority” and had agreed to this when I started my retail job. In fact, Saturdays were our busiest day, especially during our huge, once-a-month, fifty percent off sales. “Yes,” I told her. “I committed to working Saturdays, but I have since then committed to God and a wonderful church.” Although I was raised as a Christian, Sabbath was something new to me — a beautiful reminder of God’s love for me, and I was determined to honor this special day. But it wasn’t going to be easy. My boss asked if I could still work Sabbath mornings. Even though it was tempting to compromise, 38 FEBRUARY 2018
I thought, Why would I fight for the Sabbath and only receive 80 percent of it? My answer to her was, “No. I need Saturdays off, at least until sunset.” But as word travelled among my colleagues, some workers (and my bosses!) made snide comments. “Oh, I heard you’re into Jesus now,” one worker said. “I have never heard of someone needing a Saturday off for church . . . Maybe I should sign up!” another said. I loved my job and the close-knit bond with the others on my team, but I began thinking that asking for Saturdays off was a betrayal to them. I hated feeling that way. Perhaps, I thought, I should quit this job. The true meaning of the Sabbath just wasn’t getting through to them. Things took a turn for the worse when my hours were cut from 20 to five. As I prayed for deliverance, I texted my managers, pleading, “I’ll work any shift that becomes available, anything except the Sabbath.” Then I reached out to my church for help and felt reassured when the members and pastor gave me endless support. A document was drafted stating that, not only in the name of God, but also in the name of law, I had every right to request a day off for religious purposes. After a lengthy process with some twists and turns, my employer realized I was serious and granted me Saturdays off! Imagine my delight in no longer working eight- to nine-hour shifts every Saturday but, instead, enjoying the day worshipping my Heavenly Father and remembering all He has done for me. It’s amazing how God honored me when I decided to honor Him! Challenges such as the one I experienced prepare us to be strong and courageous, so long as we are obedient to Him. The trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:7 KJV). n Ivy Tech freshman, Lauren Galang, baptized last November, is a member of the Carmel Church in Indianapolis.
LAKE UNION HERALD
ON THE EDGE
Feeding the Soul
Sara Kroneck
By Sara Kroneck
▲ Joel Campbell
FOR THE PAST 10 YEARS, Joel Campbell’s family has spent one Sunday every month serving a meal at a shelter in their hometown of Green Bay, Wisconsin. It all started when Joel’s father felt a desire to get his family involved in a ministry. When the homeless shelter expressed a need for a family to help provide one of the meals at the shelter on a regular basis, they stepped up to the plate, and they now serve around 150 people every time. “There’s been a lot of memorable people through the years. Some have impacted our family directly,” Joel shares. One Sabbath, his family was passing out books when his mom noticed a man who they had fed at the homeless shelter several times. He seemed distraught and upset, so they stopped to talk with him and found he was struggling with a lot of hardships. “My parents tried to help him get back up on his feet. He even stayed at our house for a little while,” Joel says. “I think the shelter gave
us an opportunity to connect with people on a really personal and spiritual level.” Sometimes people strike up conversations asking about the vegetarian stew his mom serves. “My mom is pretty bomb at seasoning, so she does all the extra stuff with the broth,” he laughs. “Some people come up afterwards, crying, saying they had a hard week. Being able to eat the food and such friendly service really made their day, or their week, or their month! That’s happened more than once,” he continues. When he was younger, Joel didn’t always appreciate getting up early to go help. “What 10-year-old likes to wake up at 5:30 in the morning on a Sunday?” he laughs. Looking back now, he is thankful for the impact it has made on him. “As I got older I realized, Wow, this is a real opportunity to be a blessing for others and to put into action what we read in the Bible.” He says that continues — there are always new people and new experiences, and it has helped him understand Jesus’ life and ministry in a tangible way. Joel encourages other young people to get involved in ministry. “Do what you need to do to find some way to help out! Maybe you haven’t taken the time to look, but there’s always something you can do. Helping other people is sometimes more powerful than any other kind of ministry, and it can bring you closer to Jesus.” n
Sara Kroneck is a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin–Sheboygan and lives in Plymouth, Wisconsin.
ADDRESS CORRECTION Only paid subscribers (see below) should contact the Lake Union Herald office with their address changes. Members should contact their local conference membership clerks directly for all Lake Union Herald address changes. Contact phone numbers are listed below for your convenience, and addresses are listed to the right. Online submissions can be made at http://herald.lakeunion.org under “Subscription Change.” Lake Union Herald Office: 269-473-8242 Lake Region: 773-846-2661 Illinois: 630-856-287 Michigan: 517-316-1552 Indiana: 317-844-6201 ext. 241 Wisconsin: 920-484-6555 Members outside the Lake Union may subscribe by sending a check for $12.50 (per year) to P.O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287. Note: If you are a member of a church in the Lake Union but are not receiving the Lake Union Herald, please request it through your church clerk or your local conference secretary.
LAKE UNION HERALD
Official publication of the Seventh-day Adventist Church/Lake Union Headquarters http://herald.lakeunion.org Vol. 110, No. 2 THE LAKE UNION HERALD STAFF P.O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287 | (269) 473-8242 Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . Maurice Valentine, president@lakeunion.org Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gary Burns, editor@lakeunion.org Managing Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . Debbie Michel, herald@lakeunion.org Circulation/Back Pages Editor . . . . . . . . . . . circulation@lakeunion.org Art Direction/Design. . . . . . . . . , Robert Mason, masondesign@me.com Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . Articulate@Andrews, articulate@andrews.edu Proofreader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan K. Slikkers CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Adventist Health System Anthony Vera Cruz, Anthony.VeraCruz@ahss.org Andrews University . . . . . . . . . . . . Rebecca May, RMay@andrews.edu Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shona Cross, scross@ilcsda.org Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Steve Poenitz, spoenitz@indysda.org Lake Region . . . . . . . . Paul Young, communication@lakeregionsda.org Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andy Im, aim@misda.org Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Juanita Edge, jedge@wi.adventist.org CORRESPONDENTS Adventist Health System Anthony Vera Cruz, Anthony.VeraCruz@ahss.org Andrews University . . . . . . . . . . . Gillian Sanner, sanner@andrews.edu Illinois . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shona Cross, scross@ilcsda.org Indiana . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Colleen Kelly, colleenkelly1244@gmail.com Lake Region . . . . . . . . Paul Young, communication@lakeregionsda.org Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Julie Clark, jclark@misda.org Wisconsin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Deidre Roat, droat@wi.adventist.org LAKE UNION CONFERENCE DEPARTMENTS P.O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287 | (269) 473-8200 President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Maurice Valentine Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Glynn Scott Vice President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmelo Mercado Associate Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Richard Moore Associate Treasurer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jon Corder ACSDR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Diana Bruch ASI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Carmelo Mercado Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gary Burns Communication Associate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Debbie Michel Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Linda Fuchs Education Associate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ruth Horton Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Randy Griffin Information Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sean Parker Ministerial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Multiethnic Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Carmelo Mercado Native Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gary Burns Public Affairs and Religious Liberty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nicholas Miller Trust Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jon Corder Women’s Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Youth Ministries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Ron Whitehead LOCAL CONFERENCES AND INSTITUTIONS Adventist Health System: Terry Shaw, president/CEO, 900 Hope Way, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714; 407-357-1000. Andrews University: Andrea Luxton, president, Berrien Springs, MI 491040670; 269-471-7771. Illinois: Ron Aguilera, president; John Grys, secretary; Michael Daum, treasurer; 619 Plainfield Rd., Willowbrook, IL 60527-8438; 630-856-2850. Indiana: Steve Poenitz, president; Mark Eaton, secretary/treasurer; street address: 15205 Westfield Blvd., Carmel, IN 46032; mailing address: P.O. Box 5000, Westfield, IN 46074; 317-844-6201. Lake Region: R. Clifford Jones, president; Timothy Nixon, secretary; Yvonne Collins, treasurer; 8517 S. State St., Chicago, IL 60619; 773-846-2661. Michigan: Jay Gallimore, president; James Micheff Jr., secretary; Leroy Bruch, treasurer; street address: 5801 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing, MI 48917; mailing address: P.O. Box 24187, Lansing , MI 48909; 517-316-1500. Wisconsin: Michael G. Edge, president; Brian Stephan, secretary/treasurer; street address: N2561 Old Highway 16, Fall River, WI 53932; mailing address: P.O. Box 100, Fall River, WI 53932; 920-484-6555. Contributors: Writer guidelines are available online at http://herald. lakeunion.org.
FEBRUARY 2018 Indexed in the Seventh-day Adventist Periodical Index
39
P.O. Box 287, Berrien Springs, MI 49103-0287
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